The manufacture, sale and use of bitumen emulsions for surface dressing have increased for the first time in 12 years, according to the sector’s trade body.
The latest figures from the Road Emulsion Association (REA), which represents all the UK bitumen emulsion manufacturers, show around 38.5 million square metres of surface dressing was applied over the surface treatments season (April to September) in 2024.
This is 9% higher than the same period in 2023, when the REA reported the lowest amount sold since records began in 1978.
The trade body said this upturn is still significantly below the typical volumes used before the decline in surface dressing seen over the last 12 years, but the numbers represent 'green shoots of recovery'.
It argued that the reduction in surface dressing by local highway authorities has contributed considerably to the increase in potholes across the local highway network.
Kevin Maw, REA consultant and secretary said: ‘This is positive news for the highways industry and road users.
‘While we have a long way to go to get back to the volumes of bitumen emulsions produced in the years up to 2012 to enable more than 60 million square metres per annum of surface dressing, this shows that the trend has started to turn, which is encouraging.
‘It could be a sign of market recovery and a change in the focus among local highway authorities who are investing more in preventative maintenance, which is what we have been calling for as part of our campaign, Futureproofing our local roads.’
Chris Green, head of highway operations at Leicestershire County Council, said: ‘I’m encouraged that more local authorities are adopting and increasing their application of sustainable, low-carbon preventative maintenance treatments such as surface dressing.
‘It’s the most cost-effective way for local authorities to maintain roads, prevent potholes, improve safety and keep roads moving.’
