If you are about to start off the new year by looking for a new car deal then you may also want to invest in some accompanying motoring technology.
There is nothing worse than getting a problem on a new motor and unfortunately, the amount of potholes on British roads now means that mechanical damage is more likely than ever. However, a smartphone app, originally developed for cyclists, which can report the hazards has been backed by the Department for Transport (DfT).
The government has given £30,000 to fund the rollout of the app for Android devices as well as iOS gadgets and allow the cycling charity CTC to revamp its Fill that Hole website.
With the funding, it will mean that almost any motorist in the UK can download the website’s software and easily and accurately report potholed roads to their councils. It is hoped the new app could be ready for the start of February, which is traditionally viewed as the beginning of ‘pothole season’ when the winter conditions have caused the most damage to the roads.
Roads minister Robert Goodwill said: "The government is serious about tackling potholes. At best they are an irritation but at worst they can damage vehicles and pose a serious danger to cyclists. That is why we want people to tell councils where to find them so they can fill them in. This app means more people are going to be able to report potholes more easily."
He added that the reporting and subsequent filling of potholes is only one part of the story and in order for road surfaces to be safer, more attention needs to be paid to long-term maintenance.
To ease the problem and help protect cars old and new, the government has already provided more than £3 billion to councils in England, while a further £200 million was pledged in 2011 following the year's severe winter.
Posted by Fred Mason