Scheme aims to make East Sussex roads pothole-proof

East Sussex County Council is investing £1.5 million in an effort to make 30 roads across the county pothole-proof.

Work to improve and seal road surfaces following the winter weather and the repair of potholes will begin at the end of July on routes that are showing signs of wear.

As well as improving safety by giving vehicles more grip, the work – which involves laying stone chippings on hot tar to seal the road surface – protects the surface from pothole-causing frost and water damage.

“Carrying out this work will not only improve the safety of these roads, but will also extend the life of the surface by up to 10 years,” said Cllr Carl Maynard, lead member for transport and environment.

“With East Sussex County Council having spent around £40 million on road maintenance over the past three years, it is important we demonstrate value for money for our council tax payers and ensure any work we carry out lasts for as long as possible.”

The surface dressing work will cause little disruption to motorists as vehicles, limited to 20mph, can use the road almost immediately after work is carried out.

County council contractors will apply a layer of bitumen to the road before putting down stone chippings. The stone chippings are then rolled, but the process of bedding the chippings into the bitumen continues for several days under the weight of vehicles.

The chippings will be swept from the roads 24 hours after work is carried out and again after three and seven days, after which the road will be sealed.