Roads we maintain

We receive frequent requests for pothole data in a variety of formats. While we aim to be as transparent as possible, we can only share information that is recorded within our systems.

At present, we do not have an exact count of all potholes in the area or the total number repaired. Potholes are logged as works instructions, and each instruction may relate to one pothole or several. In addition, our teams sometimes carry out “find and fix” repairs, where potholes are addressed as they are discovered. These may not always be recorded as separate works instructions.

As a result, the figures shown in our tables represent only the potholes recorded through works instructions, and the actual number of potholes identified and repaired is likely to be higher.

Pothole data

The information provided is accurate as of 21 January 2026.

How we assess and repair potholes

There is no single standard for classifying or repairing a pothole. Location and risk play a major role. For example, a small pothole on a footway outside a school or hospital may be repaired sooner than a similar defect on a road where it poses minimal risk to vehicles.

Temporary repairs

Sometimes a temporary repair is required before a permanent fix can be completed. This still counts as one repair - the temporary work ensures the area is safe for road users. Without this approach, we might need to cone or sign off areas for longer periods, which would cause greater disruption to the network.

Repair responses

Not every pothole requires an immediate response. Lower‑risk defects are scheduled for future repair, and in some cases, a pothole may not be repaired if the road is due to be resurfaced soon.

We use a risk‑based approach to determine which defects require urgent attention. While we cannot respond instantly to all reports, this method helps us address the most serious issues promptly.

Weather also plays a significant role. Cold temperatures, water ingress, and freeze–thaw cycles can reduce the effectiveness of repair materials, and staff may be diverted to winter maintenance or storm response. These factors can sometimes lead to defects reappearing, and temporary fixes may be necessary to keep the network safe.

Road inspections

Roads are inspected on a monthly, quarterly (every 3 months) or annual basis. Between inspections, we rely on reports from the public to identify hazardous defects on roads, footways, paths, and cycle routes.

The most helpful way to provide a location is by including a grid reference (coordinates). This can easily be submitted using our online reporting form.

Report a pothole

How potholes develop

Potholes usually form when water enters the layers beneath the road surface. In winter, freeze–thaw cycles can accelerate deterioration. Roads with heavy traffic can develop potholes quickly, and in severe cases the surface may fail completely. Surface dressing is one preventive technique used to help limit water ingress.

Even after a permanent repair, a pothole can reappear over time - particularly in locations with repeated heavy traffic, turning movements, or high stress on the road surface.

Methods used for repairs

Since 2017, we have used a spray injection machine to deliver durable repairs. This high‑pressure method helps prevent water ingress and promotes self‑compaction of materials. The machine cannot operate in all weather conditions and is shared across the Highland area, so additional units may be hired when needed.

Other repair techniques include:

• hot boxes
• hot‑lay materials
• cold‑lay materials (temporary and permanent)
• rolled or hand‑compacted repairs

The method chosen depends on the location, defect type, and available materials.

Cost of repairs

The cost of fixing a pothole varies based on its size and the work required. We do not record the cost of individual pothole repairs; these are included within a wider road‑maintenance budget. For this reason, we do not hold an average cost per pothole.