SWINDON will benefit from almost £200,000 to help combat the scourge of potholes on our roads.

The cash, part of a dedicated £1.2 billion central government pot to tackle problems on local roads, will add to the £163,000 received last year.

With a recent rise in freezing temperatures and ice, the prevalence of potholes is likely to increase in the coming weeks and months.

The additional money will allow the council to continue to fund its work to combat the decline of road surfaces across the borough.

The funding pot includes money from a new National Productivity Investment Fund as well as more from the Pothole Action Fund.

The government has also identified £75 million that councils are able to bid for to repair and maintain local infrastructure such as bridges, street lighting and rural roads.

News of the funding has been welcomed by Justin Tomlinson.

He said he hopes the funding will lead to road improvements, a reduction in congestion and a decrease in journey times.

“The state of our roads is often raised with me by local residents and remains a great source of frustration for drivers,” added the North Swindon MP.

“This funding is welcome news for families and businesses in Swindon who rely on our roads to get around.

“It builds on the £163,000 we got last year and is the latest step in our plan to build a country that works for everyone.

“Today’s announcement shows that we are delivering on our commitment to invest in infrastructure to attract businesses and secure a better future for local businesses.”

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “I know how important well-maintained roads are to people across the country.

“Almost every journey starts and ends on a local road, so the government is giving councils £250 million specifically to tackle the blight of potholes in their area.”

Pothole issues in Swindon can be reported using the online system on the council’s website.

Staff will need to know the road or footpath on which the defect is located and where on the road it is.

You will also have to make an estimation of the depth and width of the pothole to allow for it to be prioritised.

Swindon Borough Council’s policy is that no action will be taken if the pothole is less than 31mm deep on a road, or less than 26mm deep on a footpath or cycleway.

Conversely, where a pothole in deeper than 40mm it will be repaired within 24 hours.

All other potholes are supposed to be assessed and are repaired within six weeks of identification with delays for freezing weather and heavy rain allowing.

Where are the worst potholes in the Swindon area? Email us

with a picture at newsdesk@swindonadvertiser.co.uk or Tweet us

@SwindonAdver.