Government has published findings from a study called the ‘Digital Intelligent Brokerage’ which aims to make more use of innovative approaches to address the problem of potholes. The study, prepared by Atkins, is based on a pilot scheme in Wiltshire and suggests new methods of road maintenance for local authorities to try.

Other techniques included in the report include the use of graphite nanoparticles in asphalt to reduce surface cracks and the use of ‘bio-bitumen’ to reduce the carbon associated with laying road surfacing.

Announcement of the work of the Digital Intelligent Brokerage came as the Government promised £15M to repair and improve traffic signals, with grants of either £500,000 or £250,000 going to 39 local authorities. “This vital funding and work will cut journey times for millions of people, reduce emissions and keep the UK at the forefront of technological developments in roads maintenance,” said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

Using drones to detect road defects has been trialled by authorities including and would see the unmanned devices fill potholes with 3D printed material. Circular pothole repairs would, the report explains, create an even distribution of density within a repair and avoid traditional weak points in the corners of square fixes.

(Photograph: University of Leeds)

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