AN innovative repair method has received funding for the Essex road network.

Thousands of additional road repairs have been carried out across Essex following funding for an innovative technique.

Jet patching fills road defects, such as potholes, with an asphalt emulsion to prevent damage and deterioration from moisture.

The Jet Patcher quickly blows away debris and fills defects at speeds of up to 100km/h, reducing disruption to traffic and the need for road closures.

Essex County Council allocated £3 million towards jet patching in June and a further £185,000 in August.

This has resulted in over 7,000 repairs to date, contributing to safer and more reliable roads for Essex residents and road users.

Repairs have been carried out across all 12 Essex districts including rural and local roads. They help address issues which matter most to residents and ensure pride of place in communities.

The funding comes from £37 million allocated by the council on top of the normal highways budget for 2024/25.

£12 million has gone towards additional repairs and £25 million towards Priority One works, which includes road resurfacing, vegetation clearance, drain clearing and repainting white lines.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said: “This year’s jet patching programme has been a great success, delivering thousands of repairs across Essex’s road network in record time.

“By investing in innovative and efficient methods like jet patching, we are ensuring Essex residents benefit from safer, smoother roads with minimal disruption to their daily lives. This contributes to creating a safer, greener and healthier Essex for all.”