by Jenni Horn

jhorn@thekmgroup.co.uk

Highways workers have begun the massive task of repairing Medway's roads after the big freeze.

The bad weather and salt used to grit surfaces has caused potholes to spring up all over the Towns. The cost of repairs is estimated to be about £100,000.

All 600 miles of road in Medway have now been inspected and 1,500 potholes have so far been assessed by the council’s highways team.

Contractor Volker Highways has been working with Medway Council, as well deploying two sub-contractors, and about 250 potholes have been filled in during on-the-spot inspections.

A spokesman for Medway Council said an emergency response team has also been working 24-hours to repair damages to main roads.

She added: “All reported damages are assessed by the council and prioritised to ensure that any hazardous potholes are dealt with immediately.”

The council is now calling on the public to report any potholes that may have been missed.

Cllr Phil Filmer, Medway Council’s portfolio holder for front line services, said: “Due to the large amounts of snow and ice we received, there has been some inevitable damage to the roads. The potholes themselves have been caused by water entering cracks in the roads and these expanding, causing the road surface to break up, the effects of which can often take weeks to materialise.

“This is a problem that has been seen up and down the country, but in Medway we are working tirelessly to ensure people can continue to travel easily and safely around the borough. Medway Council maintains 600 miles of road and we will continue to ensure the most hazardous areas are dealt with as a priority.

“I would encourage any members of the public who are concerned about damages to the roads to contact Customer First and report the issue, so we can get these potholes covered as soon as possible.”

To contact Customer First, call 01634 333333 or email customer.first@medway.gov.uk