The hidden problemPotholes are usually blamed on weather and traffic, but the evidence tells a different story. The WRc Street Ironwork Report surveyed 220 manhole covers and found that 44% had failed due to break-up of the paved surround. In other words, almost half of the failures were linked directly to the materials and workmanship around ironwork. The ALARM survey adds to the picture, warning that “Opening a road to create a trench can reduce its structural life by up to 30%.” Every time ironwork is repaired or replaced, the road weakens — and the risk of pothole formation increases. When you combine these two findings, it’s clear that poor ironwork installation is one of the most overlooked contributors to the UK’s pothole epidemic. Why ironwork mattersWhen ironwork isn’t specified and installed correctly, the surround deteriorates long before the rest of the road. Poor bedding materials, inadequate chamber top preparation and substandard installation practices all create weak points. These weak points quickly turn into cracks, depressions and, ultimately, potholes. This cycle of failure means repeated repairs, wasted budgets and ongoing disruption for road users. The problem isn’t that potholes are inevitable, it’s that we’re not addressing the root cause. 
A system approach to the solutionSolving the pothole crisis starts below the surface. By treating ironwork installation as a system, we can significantly reduce failures. That means:
We're taking practical steps to support this system approach. We are actively delivering training to contractors, giving them the skills and confidence to install ironwork properly. We also offer CPD training on the common causes of ironwork failures and the solutions. You can register for this training below. 
WHITE PAPERPotholes - More than a surface issueOur More Than a Surface Issue whitepaper digs deeper into the link between failing ironwork and potholes. It shares key data, explains the financial and environmental costs of repeated repairs, and sets out practical recommendations for contractors, specifiers and local authorities. If you want to understand the real cause of potholes, and what can be done to prevent them, this report is essential reading. It doesn't have to be this way
Listen to the PodcastTune in! We've recently united forces with IKO, the minds behind Pacopatch and Public Sector Executive on this crucial conversation in the PSE Podcast. We explore innovative, modern, long-term solutions to revolutionise the UK's road network. Together we're empowering local authorities to deliver safer, smoother roads for every UK road user at a lower whole-life cost. Join us as we pave the way to a better future on the road. 
You can listen to episode 62, "Changing mindsets" of the Public Sector Executive podcast on all good podcast apps by searching for Public Sector Executive Podcast or online by clicking below: Insights from local authorities ◤ Industry analysis ◤ Efficient solutionsPotholes across the UK’s road and highway network are a real problem. In fact, road incidents caused by pothole related damage in June 2023 were at their worst for five years, according to the AA Pothole Tracker. But did you know ironwork specification and selection can affect and even increase the likelihood of a pothole forming? Potholes will continue to be an even greater concern in the coming colder months due to the harsher weather conditions putting additional stress on asphalt surfaces. Our updated report explores;
Solutions
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