Pothole repairs tripled since lockdown

Council crews have repaired almost 1,900 potholes in city streets since coronavirus lockdown measures came into force 42 days ago.

The Stoke-on-Trent City Council teams have resurfaced 7.5 miles of roads, including the A53 MFI roundabout, Westport Road in Burslem, Manor Street in Fenton and Cemlyn Avenue in Blurton. A total of 1,885 road repairs have been carried out since 23 March – more than the combined total of 1,800 repairs carried out in January and February, and more than three times the number of repairs made in March.

Council leader Abi Brown said: “Our teams have been working safely and efficiently through the coronavirus restrictions, and the quiet roads have helped us to complete more repairs and cause less disruption to road users.

“A number of staff had self-isolated in early March, but we now have seven teams of two back out across the city and four highways inspectors working. The safety of our workforce is our top priority. Each highway job has had new risk assessments done and the majority of the processes have changed so that social distancing and health and safety regulations continue to be observed.

“We are continuing to work on schemes where workforce and supplies allow, to help protect the economy and city’s infrastructure during the pandemic. The government advice is that highways and construction workers can and should keep working as long as they are fit and well, and able to practise social distancing.

“We announced in March plans for a major new investment programme in the city’s roads over the next four years. Up to £35 million will be spent on repairing more than 900 roads and pavements, and upgrading dozens of traffic signals with modern technology.”

Residents are encouraged to report potholes, including a detailed description of the location, via the MyStoke App, or via 01782 234234.