Layer Road potholes caused after sweeper runs over repairs

Following years of trying to get the potholes on Layer Road by councillor for Shrub End and Berechurch, Dave Harris, the council eventually got round to the job.

A road sweeper has allegedly swept the road before it has set and this has affected the quality of the job, leaving further work to be done.

Poor - the execution of work on the potholes leaves road still in a mess (Image: Credited)

The heavy machinery road sweeping vehicle is said to have been clearing the road beneath.

The works on potholes on the busy Colchester road were originally due to be completed in March, but this was then pushed back.

The council then responded to concerns, saying they would complete them this month. Now works have been completed, residents and councillors have been left scratching their heads.

More - crack in the road beside where the holes have been filled in (Image: Credited) A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “Pothole repairs were carried out on Layer Road, however, a road sweeper unfortunately went over the road around the repairs while the fresh tarmac was still setting.

“Road sweepers should avoid where fresh tarmac has been laid. This is because the surrounding road can be temporarily weakened by the roller machine, which compacts new tarmac with strong vibrations.

“We apologise to residents and road users who should expect better coordination. We are speaking with the responsible contractor who will repair Layer Road as soon as possible, with no cost to the taxpayer, and ensure this does not happen again.”

Councillor for Shrub End and Berechurch, Dave Harris remains frustrated and responded to Essex County Council claims: “I don’t believe that excuse for a second with the way the side of the pothole has been missed.

“The way I feel is that I know the people who go and do this can do a good job and they’re not allowed to do it properly

“I’ve asked for a head of highways to walk through it with me repeatedly so I can point out the errors along the road.

“I feel that Colchester should oversee their own roads and make it locally controlled and given the equipment to do it ourselves.

“I’m just hopeful it will be sorted, I’ll keep working and I won’t give up.”