Cheshire East Council is trialling the latest technology in a bid to reduce the number of potholes across the Borough and improve conditions for drivers and cyclists.
A new method of pothole repair, called 'velocity patching', is due to begin after initial trials in the Nantwich area produced positive results.
Velocity patching uses a blend of bitumen and chippings that are passed through a hose at high speed from a maintenance vehicle.
The hose is initially used to blast the pothole with air, to force out any dirt or water. A bitumen emulsion bond coat is then forced deep into every crack of the pothole and the chippings are then fired at speed through a bitumen spray into the pothole. The fact that the chippings are sprayed individually helps create a stronger bond than through other methods.
There are currently two of these vehicles in operation in Cheshire East. One is slightly smaller and is better suited to urban locations.
Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member in charge of environmental services, said: "Decades of underfunding, coupled with severe winters, general wear and tear and the recent heavy flooding has meant the standard of our roads is not what it should be.
"Velocity patching is one of the innovative techniques we are adopting to remedy the situation. It will allow us to repair more potholes in less time and that can only be a good thing for Cheshire East residents.
"The machines will be targeting some of the worst roads in the Borough and will be used to rectify problem areas identified through our Local Area Partnerships and local residents."
Local residents can report potholes online to Cheshire East Council or call 0300 123 5500.
Photo: Councillor Menlove is being shown 'velocity patching' by a member of the Council's highways team.
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