In Swindon, a pothole is specifically defined as a dip or hole in the road surface that is at least 30mm deep. If it reaches more than 40mm deep, it's prioritized for urgent repair, typically within one working day. On the other hand, a road defect can encompass a wider range of issues that may not meet the pothole criteria, such as surface wear or cracks that are less than 30mm deep.
Here's a summary of the definitions:
| Type | Definition | Repair Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Pothole | Must be at least 30mm deep. | 40mm deep or more: repaired within 24 hours; others within 30 working days. |
| Other Defects | Any road issue that doesn't meet the pothole criteria, often assessed for safety risk. | May be scheduled for repair over up to six weeks. |
It's important for residents to report not just potholes but any road issues they encounter, as many reported defects may not be classified as potholes but still need attention. You can report a pothole online.