The council and its public realm contractor, Balfour Beatty Living Places, are continuing with the use of Mastic Asphalt to help improve the management of defects on the county’s roads.
Mastic Asphalt is a fast-setting, waterproof and adhesive liquid alternative used to treat road surfaces. The rubberised material bonds to the existing surface, stopping water from entering the road surface, preventing further deterioration before new potholes can form, and resulting in a long-lasting repair.
A demonstration of this material took place on the service road alongside the A49 Holmer Road in April 2024 and, following a period of evaluation, the results show that the use of Mastic Asphalt provided a 50% increase in productivity by reducing the need for hand tools and a cost saving of 20% compared to traditional methods.
Cllr Barry Durkin, Cabinet Member Roads and Regulatory Services, said: “The results from the testing of Mastic Asphalt in the county are very promising indeed. It is a tough, durable material that helps to deliver long-term repairs, and its easier application and cost-effectiveness could mean that more defects will be able to be addressed, with less need for repeat visits.
“We are committed to the best possible treatment of Herefordshire’s roads, and we will continue to look at all options which improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of our road maintenance programme.”