Firms face tougher rules over roadworks to curb Britain’s plague of potholes

FIRMS which dig up roads could have to guarantee the work for five years under plans to curb Britain’s plague of potholes.

The Department for Transport believes upping the target from two years — together with allowing new surfacing techniques — will improve standards.

PA:Press Association

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Potholes are the biggest enemy for road users and this Government is looking at all options to keep our roads in the best condition.

“Imposing higher standards on repairs will help keep roads pothole-free for longer.”

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Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “A five-year guarantee might cause the utility companies to sit up and take notice, but only if they believe local highway authorities will have the resource to monitor the state of repairs.”

Last year councils in England were given “lane rental” powers to charge utility companies up to £2,500 a day for digging up busy roads.