New Glasgow City Council pothole repair method step closer to being approved

A new method to permanently fix potholes and road defects across Glasgow is a step closer to being approved.

Glasgow Councillors were informed it could take up to three months to introduce the new strategy across the city which will see damaged roads repaired properly the first time.

In the most dangerous situations temporary solutions will be put in place.

The Scottish Government established a guidance code on road repairs which it issued to all local authorities.

Glasgow City Council has developed their own policy in line with that which was discussed at a meeting on Tuesday.

They will take a risk-based approach where each dangerous road defect is assessed before any work is carried out.

A pothole on a motorway will be deemed more important than one in a cul-de-sac.

A council spokeswoman said: “We are going to identify the most dangerous defects and fix them first.

“Problems of a low-level risk will take a little longer to complete. A public consultation will be completed in the form of drop in sessions.

“We will highlight the numerous benefits for the council and the community.

“We will use less material and reduce our carbon footprint.”

Councillor Robert Connelly asked how long it would take to eradicate temporary road repairs but was informed that it would not be possible.

Mr Connelly said: “Overall I am happy with the report. Other councillors and I have been arguing for this for many years.

“It is good to see we are moving in that direction. Can you tell me how long it will take to complete low risk repairs and eradicate temporary fixes?”

He was told by the council officer that temporary repairs wouldn’t be eliminated completely particularly if a manhole appeared in the middle of the road.

Councillor Chris Cunningham said: “This will be equally beneficial for the council and staff but perhaps we could have a monthly update and engage with the public to find out what is going well and what needs to be improved.”

Officers said they didn’t have an issue with that.

Following the discussion they agreed to take the new strategy to the city administration committee.