National Pothole Day provides the backdrop for the man behind a Caithness pressure group to share his take on the local issues.
A survey from Quotezone.co.uk reveals 92 per cent of British drivers feel potholes in their local area are getting worse and that 83 per cent are paying out of their own pockets for damage to their vehicles.
Iain Gregory from Caithness Roads Recovery at a very potholed Union Street in Wick. Picture: Alan Hendry
Iain Gregory, a relentless local campaigner for better roads and co-founder of Caithness Roads Recovery (CRR), said: “January 15 is always designated as ‘National Pothole Day’ and throughout the land, numerous stories appear in the media, highlighting the extent of the problem across the whole of the UK.
Iain Gregory views potholes at Tain near Castletown.
“In Caithness, however, every single day can be regarded as ‘Caithness County Pothole Day’, with today being no exception. For the past four years, CRR has campaigned for action – real action – involving not only acceptance by Inverness and Edinburgh that things have gone beyond crisis point but a commitment to invest the substantial funds needed to bring the county’s roads back to an acceptable standard.
“We will continue to do so until things are put right. As we repeatedly say, ‘The condition of our roads is a symptom of a much deeper underlying malaise’ – and it is quite true.
A very potholed road in the Bower area. Picture: DGSThis junction at West Banks Avenue in Wick needs frequent attention. Picture: DGS
“In Caithness, all roads, except for the A9, and the A99 from Latheron to Wick, are the responsibility of the Highland Council. If you sustain damage as a result of a road defect, then telephone the council on 01349 886601 and ask for a claim form for pothole damage.
“When the form arrives, fill it in, accurately and in detail, and send it back, along with a copy of the repair bill, photographs (if possible) of the damage, and, only if safe to get and without ever entering the carriageway, pictures of the offending defect.
Mr Gregory also shared this link: www.highland.gov.uk/downloads/file/20457/pothole_factsheet
Mr Gregory views a very damaged area of road at Castle Terrace in Thurso.
“The only real advice we can give to maximise safety is to make sure that you are constantly hazard aware, that you know exactly where following and oncoming traffic is positioned at all times, and be prepared to safely take whatever action is required to protect yourself, other road users, and your vehicle.
“Also, it is a very good idea to check your vehicle for damage on a regular basis. I carry out a weekly inspection now – tires, wheels, steering components, and suspension. Damage can occur without you realising it has happened.
“Let us hope that 2025 will see major improvements and – at long last – real action being taken to put things right. The time is now.”
Potholes at Scotscalder in Caithness. Picture: DGS
Insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk also urge drivers to understand how they can claim for motor damage caused by potholes.
They say that nine out of ten are also risking fines of up to £2500 for driving without due care and attention by having to swerve around dangerous potholes.
Mr Gregory surveys damaged road surfaces at Braeside Retreats in the Sibmister area.
Drivers can claim for pothole vehicle damage either through the local council looking after the road, the local road authority, or through their insurance provider.
It’s important to remember no claims discounts will likely no longer be in place for those who choose to claim through their insurance, and they will normally have to pay the excess fee, so it’s worth weighing up the savings.
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