Residents demand full road resurfacing after repeated pothole repairs

Roads around a Herefordshire village are still being described as unsafe despite hundreds of repair attempts over the past two years.

Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request show that 218 pothole patching jobs have been carried out in the area since 2023, across 17 contractor visits, at an estimated cost of more than £10,500.

Calls for long-term solution

Frustration among residents has led to a petition calling for a complete resurfacing of the affected roads, particularly around Priory Wood. The petition argues that repeated short-term fixes are failing to address the underlying issues.

The organiser said the roads have become increasingly hazardous, citing persistent potholes and poor drainage, and described the current approach as ineffective and poor value for money.

Council response

Herefordshire Council said the figures provided are based on average estimates, as it does not record costs for individual repair sites.

Councillor Barry Durkin, cabinet member for roads, acknowledged the growing challenge, noting that pothole numbers have risen sharply following winter conditions. He said multiple repair teams are working across the county to tackle the issue.

Ongoing concerns

Despite the repairs, residents say conditions have not improved, with some warning that the road surface continues to deteriorate.

One local resident said they simply want to travel safely, questioning whether the level of service reflects the council tax paid.

The petition remains open until 24 March, with residents continuing to push for a more permanent solution.