Two JCB Pothole Pro machines will begin repair work on region’s roads from next week, as part of £181m investment.
Nottinghamshire County Council has taken delivery of two specialist pothole-fixing machines from commercial asset supplier Dawsongroup, as it begins a major initiative worth £181.25m to upgrade the region’s roads.
Photo courtesy of Nottinghamshire County Council
Leased for 12 months to the council’s highways partner, Via East Midlands, the pair of JCB Pothole Pro machines will deliver first-time permanent repairs, and complement the eight repair teams already working on the road network.
The new machines can rapidly fix a typical pothole, helping to clear backlogs and ensuring that roads are closed for shorter periods of time. They cut, crop and clean in a single visit, while the longer-lasting repairs mean fewer repeat visits and less disruption. That should mean an overall saving to the council.
Dawsongroup leased the Pothole Pro machines to the council following a formal procurement and tendering process carried out by Via.
Cllr Mick Barton, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, says: ‘After months of hard work, Cllr Bert Bingham, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, and I decided to take on two JCB Pothole Pro machines as part of our ongoing work to repair the roads. These machines will have a positive impact in what we are trying to achieve and mark a significant step forward in our first time permanent repair programme.
‘Residents rightly expect us to deal with potholes quickly and effectively, and this technology allows us to do exactly that in addition to the more traditional methods we already use. What sets the Pothole Pro apart is its ability to complete multiple repair stages using a single piece of equipment.
‘By combining cutting, cropping, and cleaning into one machine, we can reduce the time crews spend on each repair while also minimising disruption to road users. Ultimately, this is about delivering a better service for our communities.
‘Smoother, safer roads benefit everyone, from daily commuters to local businesses, and the Pothole Pro is helping us meet those expectations in a smarter, modern way. We know we have a challenge ahead of us, that we are rising to, and I am confident residents will see a vast improvement in the condition of our roads by the end of the summer.’
Cllr Bert Bingham, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, adds: ‘The introduction of the JCB Porthole Pro machines will ensure that first time permanent repairs minimise the likelihood of repeat issues in the same locations. Another key benefit is the reduced impact on local communities as repairs can be completed faster and more efficiently, meaning there is less need for prolonged road closures or traffic management and helping to keep Nottinghamshire moving.
‘This is about building a resilient and well-maintained road network for the future. By adding modern solutions like the Pothole Pro to our toolbox of highway repairs we are addressing current challenges and seeking to set a higher standard for road maintenance in the years ahead.
‘People have understandably been frustrated with the condition of Nottinghamshire’s roads, and we believe our record-breaking investment in highways is just the start of an exciting journey as we deliver the network that people rightly expect. We will be evaluating the performance and value for money of the Pothole Pro, alongside our other machinery and traditional methods, to guide future investment decisions in our highways.’
Haley Thomas, Strategic Account Manager at Dawsongroup, says: ‘We’re proud to support Via East Midlands with the installation of the JCB Pothole Pro, which represents a significant step forward in how permanent road repairs are delivered. Having worked closely with the team since early 2024, we understand the pressures facing local authorities to do more with less while improving safety and long-term outcomes. The Pothole Pro offers a fully mechanised, permanent repair solution that aligns perfectly with Via’s commitment to efficiency, quality, and reducing repeat interventions across the network.’
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