Asphalt Group Declares Potholes Are Old News
Potholes. They’re the bane of every driver’s existence—causing everything from minor frustrations to costly vehicle damage. Yet, Asphalt Group Ltd., a leading name in road repair and maintenance, is saying it’s time to stop lamenting the state of British roads and start taking action.
Their campaign, aptly named ‘Roads That Last,’ aims to shift the focus from temporary fixes to long-term solutions that ensure smoother, safer journeys for Britain’s 40 million drivers.
Managing Director Stephen Cooke is spearheading this call for change, highlighting the inefficiencies in how road maintenance has been approached. According to Cooke, it’s not just about filling potholes; it’s about investing in solutions that prevent them altogether.
Rethinking Road Maintenance
Cooke pulls no punches when discussing the state of the UK’s roads.
“The industry needs a reset,” he states bluntly. “I’m sick of hearing, reading about, and seeing potholes. We can solve this now. Plan and deliver, and save money. The solutions exist, and Asphalt Group can deliver ‘Roads That Last.’”
For Cooke, the problem lies in a fundamental misunderstanding of asset management. Rather than pouring millions into patchwork repairs, he argues that resources should be directed toward reinforcing and preserving road surfaces to extend their lifespan.
“Instead of talking about potholes, we should be highlighting the importance of extending the life of roads,” he adds. “Our roads are strategic assets, and we’re not managing or maintaining them properly. Asset management is all about extending the life of the asset, not having to continue filling in potholes.”
The Stark Reality of UK Road Conditions
Cooke’s frustrations are backed by data. The latest Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) survey, conducted by the Asphalt Industry Alliance, paints a dire picture:
- Over half of local roads in England and Wales have less than 15 years of structural life remaining.
- The repair backlog has reached a staggering £16.3 billion.
These figures, Cooke says, should be a wake-up call. “The numbers are shocking, but they’re not surprising. It’s high time industry and government moved away from this sticking-plaster approach to road repairs. Instead, we should prioritise long-lasting resurfacing and preventive measures.”
Asphalt Group’s Sustainable Solutions
As specialists in road repair, Asphalt Group offers a trio of innovative solutions designed to extend the life of asphalt surfaces sustainably:
- Reinforcement: By strengthening road surfaces, reinforcement technology prevents cracking and minimises wear and tear. This method addresses structural issues, ensuring the road can withstand heavy traffic loads and extreme weather conditions.
- Preservation: Preservation techniques, such as sealing and protective coatings, are critical for extending a road’s lifespan. These methods shield the surface from water damage and oxidation, which are common culprits behind potholes.
- Surface Dressing: A cost-effective solution, surface dressing rejuvenates existing roads by applying a new layer of protective material. It improves skid resistance and prevents further deterioration, offering a safer driving experience.
Together, these methods create a comprehensive strategy that reduces maintenance costs and promotes sustainability.
A Strategic Asset in Need of Attention
Cooke emphasises that the UK’s road network is more than just tarmac and traffic. It’s a vital asset that underpins the country’s economy, connecting communities and enabling commerce.
“Our roads are not just pathways; they’re lifelines,” he notes. “When managed effectively, they drive economic growth and improve quality of life. But when neglected, they become liabilities—costly, dangerous, and unsustainable.”
To achieve better outcomes, Asphalt Group collaborates with local authorities, contractors, and policymakers. By focusing on risk, resilience, and cost-effectiveness, they aim to reshape the future of British roadways.
Cooke is urging Britain’s drivers to take a stand. He believes that public pressure can play a pivotal role in driving government action.
“The only way Britain’s 40 million drivers will get the safe, reliable roads they deserve (and pay for) is by putting pressure on the government,” he says. “‘Roads That Last’ should be their new campaigning call to action.”
Beyond convenience, the benefits of long-lasting roads extend to safety, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency. By reducing the frequency of repairs and minimising road closures, Asphalt Group’s approach saves taxpayers money while reducing carbon emissions associated with repeated construction activities.
A Brighter Future for British Roads
The message is clear: the UK doesn’t need more pothole fillers; it needs a paradigm shift in how roads are managed and maintained. With innovative solutions, expert knowledge, and a commitment to sustainability, Asphalt Group is leading the charge for ‘Roads That Last.’
For motorists and policymakers alike, this is a campaign worth getting behind. After all, the journey to better roads starts with a single step—or, in this case, a well-paved mile.
