Report a pothole or road edge problem

We are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the public highway, including fixing potholes.

We are not responsible for:

  • A1 in Lincolnshire and A46 between Saxilby Road roundabout and Nottinghamshire boundary – these are the responsibility of National Highways
  • Private roads or roads on private land – these are usually the responsibility of the landowner

We carry out regular safety inspections in accordance with our Highways Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan.

Potholes can develop between inspections so we encourage reports from the public too. 

If the fault presents an immediate danger outside of our normal hours, call the police on 101.

Report a pothole or road edge problem

What will happen next 

  • We usually repair potholes deeper than 40mm in a carriageway and deeper than 25mm in a footway.
  • Reports are assessed and action taken in accordance with our  Highways Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan.
  • Safety is our top priority, so any faults that are a danger to drivers and other road users will be repaired before others.  
  • If we have a major scheme of maintenance planned for the area we may not carry out works immediately. 

When will works take place

  • To help prioritise repairs we consider the size and depth of the pothole alongside the location including the traffic speed and volume. 
  • Potholes deeper than 40mm on A roads are usually filled within 24 hours of reporting
  • Potholes deeper than 40mm on B and C roads are usually filled within 28 days of reporting
  • Potholes on the unclassified network are usually filled within 90 days of reporting

Find out how to make a highways claim.

Why do potholes happen

Potholes form when water gets into a road, driven further by the hydraulic action of vehicles, and damage its construction.

During winter freezing temperatures causes any water to freeze and expand, this can quickly create a pothole.