End of the road for bumpy rides

COUNCIL chiefs have made a fresh vow to tackle Oldham’s pothole menace.

The move comes amid complaints over the growing problem of potholes and damage to vehicles.

Oldham Council’s Cabinet has pledged to examine its highways safety inspection policy on Monday, which updates how roads in the borough are inspected, in a bid to amend the guidelines.

If approved, it would mean increased efficiency and new ways of handling highways problems.

Proposals include regular inspections, with main roads checked every month, down to once a year for minor roads.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Cabinet member for the environment and housing, said: “Road safety is a priority for Oldham Council and making sure that we have a Highways Inspection Policy that moves with the times is crucial.

“Our highways team already does a great job, but these proposals will mean continuous improvement and will bring us up to the level of the best in the country.”

Last year more than 4,500 potholes were filled in Oldham, and more than 27,000 sq metres of carriageway resurfaced. Oldham has spent £10 million repairing highways in the past four yearss — but has paid out around £2.5 million in compensation for damage caused by poor surfaces and potholes

:: Report a pothole by email at: highways@oldham.gov.uk.