Download Potholes on the road network Summary: In common with the rest of

Number: 495
Title:
Potholes on the road network
Summary:
In common with the rest of the country, roads in parts of Cheshire West
and Chester are suffering from a surge in the number of potholes, resulting
from one of the wettest years on record, followed by a prolonged period of
freezing temperatures.
Reports of road defects, including potholes, have risen compared to a year ago. This is a
consequence of recent weather conditions and in particular the saturated ground, which
combined with recent freezing conditions, has led to many of the older road surfaces suffering
potholing.
With the rainfall we have had over the last year, as well as the more recent snow and extended
period of freezing temperatures, our roads are under constant attack from water. Whether the
water is getting into cracks on the road surface, ground water affecting the road foundation, or
from seepage from ditches or water run-off from fields and higher ground, there really has been
no let up for our roads.
Potholes are caused by the loading of vehicles, the ingress of water, and the repeated freeze /
thaw action. As the materials that make up the road age, their flexibility is reduced, more so in
cold weather. This lack of flexibility in the road surface creates the cracks through which water
enters into the various layers that make up a road. As water freezes and expands, this causes
the road surface to crack further and allows water to sit between the various layers of the road
construction. Vehicles driving over the road generate pressure, which builds up and water is
jetted back through the cracks. This, along with the frost action, leads to the formation of
potholes. Prolonged periods of wet weather followed by a very cold period will always see an
increase in the numbers and location of potholes. This is what we are experiencing at the
moment, which is consistent with the rest of the country’s road network.
Throughout the recent cold period, the Road Care teams have been ensuring that snow is
removed from our vital roads, so that the freezing conditions have as little impact on road users
as possible. As the snow clears, the full impact of this sustained cold period is becoming
apparent.
We have increased the number of gangs fixing potholes in the borough to recover those most
affected roads and stabilise the surface. Whilst we always endeavour to undertake permanent
repairs, the material used for these works can only be used in certain weather conditions.
Temperature is critical with permanent repair materials. Repairs done when temperatures are
below zero (or even below plus 6oc with certain materials) will not be effective, so at times we
do need to use temporary repairs as a short term safety measure.
Our Highway teams remain focused on minimising dangers to road users. In order to cope with
the number of potholes over the cold period, we are undertaking far more temporary repairs
than we would normally do, until we can arrange for permanent repairs to be carried out.
Alongside the pothole repair work, the highways teams will also be checking and clearing
drainage channels etc. and the Council is asking private landowners and householders to check
and clear ditches on their property. Every householder and land owner has a responsibility to
ensure ditches on their land are clear to ensure that water can flow away freely.
Since the formation of the Council the condition of the road network has been considered a
priority and significant investment over and above that which the Government provides, has
been made on maintaining the roads.
Over the last three years over 100km of the borough’s 2,300km network of roads have been
resurfaced. We have also undertaken preventative treatments on many more roads across the
borough. This has been possible through the significant investment the Council has made to
roads through the 10-year improvement programme.
If you do identify problems on the roads please report them using the web at:
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/transport_and_roads.aspx
For further information contact: Kevin Carrol, Highways Manager 01244 973652 [email protected]
Directorate: Localities
Responsible Committee, Board, Executive Member: Cllr Lynn Riley
Date: 8 April 2013
Background documents:
If you have any comments about this Briefing Note, about the Members’ Briefing Series, or if you would like to suggest a topic for a
Briefing Note, please contact Rob Renouf, Policy Manager, Floor 2, HQ, 58 Nicholas Street, Chester. Telephone 01244 977261. e-mail
[email protected]