A pothole busting machine has triumphed in a competition on Gloucestershire roads, showcasing innovative repair techniques
Gloucestershire: So, guess what? A pothole busting machine just won a competition on the roads here! The county council has been testing out different ways to fix those pesky potholes, and it’s been quite the showdown.
Over the summer, these machines went head-to-head, and engineers were keeping a close eye on how well they did. Turns out, each machine has its own strengths, making them perfect for different types of roads and conditions.
They’ve picked the best machines to form a top-notch team that can handle whatever comes their way in 2025. The Roadmender really stood out for its speed and quality of repairs, plus it’s eco-friendly!
This machine uses a hot rubber asphalt mix made from recycled tires to patch up the roads. It’s quick, durable, and looks neat, which is a win-win. Plus, it’s better for the environment than the old-school methods.
During the summer, this technique saved about 100 tonnes of CO2 compared to traditional repairs. It worked on 26 roads and used 75 tonnes of material, including 675 recycled tires. Pretty impressive, right?
The council isn’t stopping there. They’ll keep using a Spray Injection Patching machine and a Bobcat for repairs, too. Each method is best for different spots, so picking the right one is key to keeping our roads in shape.
These machines will be out and about mostly in spring and summer when winter’s damage starts to show. You know how those cracks can turn into potholes when the weather warms up!
After the trials, the council is all in on proactive pothole repairs, sending teams out to fix smaller issues before they become big problems. They’re even testing cold materials for repairs to cut down on waste and save energy. Plus, there’s a big road resurfacing program in the works.
Cllr Stephen Davies, the leader of the council, said they’re using new tech to really change the game for highways services. He’s thrilled with the trial results and is committed to making our streets better. The highways teams are working hard day and night to improve journeys for everyone in Gloucestershire!
