WARRINGTON Borough Council is to trial a new “pothole-pro” that can repair a pothole in a matter of minutes speeding up the fixing process by 700 per cent, saving time and money.
It follows a call from local Lib Dems to trial the new equipment at Warrington Borough Council’s recent budget meeting.
Councillor Ian Marks said, “At the Budget Council meeting I mentioned a specialist vehicle designed by JCB to repair the country’s potholes in record time. The ‘Pothole-Pro’ can repair a pothole in eight minutes which speeds up the fixing process by 700%.
“Government finance for potholes has been cut in recent months, yet all councillors must receive numerous complaints about potholes in their wards. Apart from the speed of repair and productivity cost savings, the machine has positive green credentials because fewer heavy-duty vehicles are required.
“The machine has been trialled in Stoke which is close to JCB’s headquarters. To buy it would cost £165,000 but a lease option is available at £600 a week. I have asked the Council to commit to a trial of ‘Pothole-Pro’ and I look forward to their response to my request.”
Cllr Hans Mundry, Cabinet Member Highways, Transportation & Public Realm said: “The highway service actively encourages new methods of working and innovation within the industry and has already arranged a trial of the Pothole‐Pro, which is initially limited to two days in April due to the availability of the machine. The trial is being supported by the council’s Term Maintenance Contractor, Tarmac and the supplier.”
Cllr Marks said, “I am very pleased about this and look forward to hearing the results of the trial.”
