United Kingdom – This Monday 16th January, is National Pothole Day #NationalPotholeDay – focussing attention on the UK road infrastructure.
The initiative now in its third year is coordinated by the Street Repairs website which states that, “The UK’s road infrastructure is still suffering serious neglect. With the backlog for repairs increasing and maintenance budgets being slashed, we have listened to you the road user, and the general consensus is that it (National Pothole Day) is definitely needed.”
The Street Repairs website, launched just over three years ago, provides, “One website through which residents can submit any problem, to any local council anywhere, anytime. Smartphone technology has allowed residents to report problems in real time.” When reporting a defect on the Street Repairs website you can attach photographs and give a detailed description whilst out and about, which gives the general public street the power to report faults.
With a few clicks you can share on social media and bring defects to the attention of the authority in question. There is also the ability to warn other road users of any pothole hazards or dangers that can be avoided by using social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.
Once the problem is reported, Street Repairs then tries to collaborate with councils to help them prioritise the works that need carrying out which also assists in managing their maintenance budgets. They also encourage and closely monitor the council’s progress and follow up on all cases submitted via the Street Repairs website. Progress updates from the council are regularly requested to ensure a satisfactory outcome for local residents and the council.
Mark Morrell
– (aka Mr-Pothole) StreetRepairs.co.uk press officer said, “Many millions of our followers and supporters have asked us to highlight the seriousness of this major problem, just take a look at our thunderclap campaign that tells you the strength of feeling from the pothole weary UK public. I can honestly say that the safety aspect alone from the Street Repairs website could save lives. No wonder public sentiment is very high in relation to this major issue.”
How do you get involved in National Pothole Day?
Simply, on Monday take a bit of time out and report that pothole that you have had to avoid everyday on you travels.
A pothole for motorists may only lead to a damaged wheel or tyre but motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users – cyclists and even pedestrians – are susceptible to defective road surfaces.
It’s not rocket science, poor road design and maintenance can contribute to motorcycle crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
If you can do one thing on Monday, please report that pothole!
Links & Information
Thunder Clap – National Pothole Day 2017
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