North Somerset is currently testing a groundbreaking pothole repair technology capable of setting in just five minutes. The trial is underway outside Weston-super-Mare Town Hall, where council officials hope the new solution will provide a faster and more durable fix for the region’s often damaged roads.
The technology, developed by Multi Contracting Services Ltd, features a product called “multi mastic.” This material not only repairs existing potholes but also seals cracks and surface damage before they develop into larger problems, potentially reducing the overall incidence of potholes. The quick curing process means that repaired roads can be reopened to traffic within minutes, vastly improving maintenance efficiency.
Thus far, the technology has been applied to a 196-square-metre section of Walliscote Grove, chosen specifically for its combination of cracks and small potholes to thoroughly evaluate the product’s effectiveness.
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Council leader Mike Bell emphasised the importance of innovation in road maintenance, stating, “Residents rightly expect us to look after our roads in a way that delivers the best possible value for money while also reducing environmental impacts wherever we can. This trial is a good example of how we are exploring innovative techniques that could help us maintain our highway network more efficiently.”
North Somerset Council manages an extensive network comprising 2,340 miles of roads, footpaths, and cycle lanes. The region’s low-lying geography results in increased moisture on rural roads, accelerating wear and tear and leading to more frequent pothole formation.
The repair process involves clearing loose debris from the road, filling any deep holes with asphalt, then heating the Elastomac-based material to 200 degrees Celsius before applying it directly. The substance is carefully spread and levelled by hand, with a layer of bauxite grit added for extra durability and grip.
Mr Bell added, “If the trial proves successful, it could become another useful tool in helping us keep North Somerset moving while minimising disruption for our communities.”