Stoke-on-Trent is trialling a new way to maintain its roads that aims to reduce disruption for residents and road users, while also cutting the city’s environmental impact.
The pilot introduces a new one pass approach, where multiple fixes – including gully cleaning, road marking refresh, and pothole and surface crack repairs – are carried out in one operation.
By carrying out all three jobs at once, the forward-thinking method reduces the amount of time roads need to be closed or restricted. It also lowers the city’s carbon footprint by cutting the number of vehicle journeys needed and using materials more efficiently.
The new approach also makes use of sustainable materials, including several man-made alternatives to traditional products, supporting a more environmentally responsible model of highway maintenance.
Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride and enforcement at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We’re always looking for smarter and more sustainable ways to maintain our roads. This new one-pass method is an exciting step forward – it means less disruption for road users, quicker delivery and a greener way of working. Like any new approach, there are early learning points but these are part of the innovation process and these are already being addressed as part of the trial.”
“This trail will deliver long-term efficiencies, deliver faster, more efficient road maintenance and reduce the environmental impact, setting a positive example for how local authorities can modernise their approach to maintaining roads.”
