Revetment walls are permanent structures designed to prevent subsidence that commonly occurs adjacent to all rivers and canals. By definition a revetment structure is a protective covering on an embankment of earth designed to maintain the slope or to protect it from erosion. Most revetment walls are earth-retaining structures not unlike terrestrial walls, but revetments are also substantially exposed continuously to changing tidal water levels and erosion at the toe facing the water. In walls fronting rivers and flood canals, the latter provide a major cause for wall movement and failure. Evidence shows tht the leaching of sand from behind revetments through weepholes, control joints, cracked construction joints or under the base itself, generates the greatest design problems because it is so unpredictable.
Ref: When Retaining Walls Come Tumbling Down P.32

When rock protection fails to prevent subsidence, the results can be costly and dangerous. In this case, the existing rock protection was ineffective at halting the shifting soil, leading to further instability. To address the issue, a total rebuild was necessary, designed specifically to prevent future subsidence and ensure long-term stability.
Alan Davis Revetment Walls and Barge Hire worked closely with engineers to create a solution that would not only resolve the current issue but also protect the site from future erosion and ground movement.


A collapse of the block revetment wall led to leaching and undermining of the existing retaining wall, compromising the structural integrity of the entire system. The damage caused by the collapse required immediate action to prevent further erosion and property damage.
A complete rebuild of both the revetment and retaining wall was necessary to restore stability and prevent future issues. Alan Davis Revetment Walls and Barge Hire provided an expertly designed solution, ensuring the new structure was reinforced and capable of withstanding ongoing environmental pressures.
The loss of sand through the revetment wall led to subsidence beneath the retaining wall foundation, putting surrounding structures at significant risk. This issue compromised the stability of the wall and created a potential for further erosion and movement.
To prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the property, a total rebuild of the revetment and retaining wall was required. Alan Davis Revetment Walls and Barge Hire designed and implemented a robust solution to address the subsidence and provide long-term structural stability.


Projects involving storm water failure can be particularly challenging, as identifying the root cause of a collapse requires thorough investigation. In this case, the failure was traced back to a broken storm water pipe, which had caused significant erosion and structural instability. Our contract for this project was with Suncorp and Gold Coast City Council insurance, covering the necessary repairs and easement work.
Our team worked efficiently to rectify the issue, ensuring the wall’s structural integrity was restored and the underlying storm water problem was fully addressed.
The collapse of the revetment wall and retaining wall was caused by the loss of the beach profile along the Main River, leading to significant erosion and instability. As the natural support for the wall eroded, the structure failed under pressure, risking further damage.
To rebuild, all new works had to be piered to ensure a stable foundation capable of withstanding future environmental forces. We expertly designed and executed the solution, ensuring the new revetment wall was strong, durable, and resilient to future river movements.


Alan and his crew frequently encounter structural collapses like this one, often caused by poor original design and subpar workmanship. In this case, the weaknesses in the initial construction led to significant instability and failure.
To address the issue, all works had to be carried out by barge due to limited access, which added an additional layer of complexity. Our team meticulously planned and executed the rebuild, ensuring that the new structure was strong, reliable, and built to last, avoiding future failures.
This project involved a major failure resulting from a storm water easement collapse, causing significant erosion and damage to the surrounding infrastructure. The challenge was compounded by limited tidal movement, making it a difficult and time-consuming project. Due to the site’s location and access restrictions, all foundation and pier works had to be carried out by barge.
We worked closely with Gold Coast City Council to deliver a high-quality solution, rebuilding the storm water easement with precision to prevent further damage and ensure long-term stability.


This project involved the failure of a storm water easement and a section of the revetment wall, affecting two residential properties. The collapse posed a significant risk to the stability of the surrounding area, requiring immediate attention. Our contract for this rebuild was with Gold Coast City Council Insurance, ensuring that the repair work met all regulatory requirements.
Our team at Alan Davis Revetment Walls and Barge Hire expertly managed the project, delivering a fully reconstructed revetment wall designed to withstand future pressures and protect the properties from further erosion or failure.