An enduring topic of conversation for UK drivers is that of potholes and Harrow is no different. In this article we’re looking at our borough’s potholes – and what the council intends to do about them.
Potholes are holes or depressions in a road’s surface and are usually caused by a combination of excess water beneath the road’s soil foundations and wear and tear caused by constant traffic. While some potholes are little more than shallow dents, others can become crater-like holes which can cause significant damage to vehicles when driven over. In 2023, UK drivers made 1324 insurance claims to pay for damage caused by potholes.
A big issue for UK councils, including Harrow
In a council meeting on the 22nd of February this year, Harrow Council set out 30 flagship actions for our borough within its corporate plan for 2024 / 2025. Among these actions is the Harrow ‘Pothole Squad’ created to urgently tackle our deteriorating roads as a matter of priority. Cllr Osborn claims that the council repaired 1300 potholes in Harrow in 2023 and has earmarked £165,000 to continue tackling the issue in 2024.
At the beginning of this year, Harrow Council unveiled its secret weapon against these road menaces – a nifty bit of kit created by JCB in partnership with Thermal Road Repairs. It’s said that this cutting edge equipment will provide a fast, efficient and long term solution to a problem which is reaching epidemic proportions in Harrow and the rest of the United Kingdom.
This will no doubt be welcome news to Harrow drivers – many of whom were dismayed last year when Harrow, along with four other Conservative councils, lost their fight against the expansion of ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) in our borough – a battle that cost an eye watering £150,000.
Harrow residents who spot potholes in their area are encouraged to report these to Harrow Council using this link.
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Nicci, born in Cumbria in 1971, moved to London at 17 to work for Mute Records. She has a diverse career spanning design, copywriting, and PR. Nicci is an author, freelance copywriter, and PR professional, with her own agency, Front Page Promotions. She covers historical stories for Harrow Online and has authored several books. She currently resides in Harrow, North West London
