CAMPAIGNING councillors have slammed a “criminal” report which reveals Essex County Council has paid out £2.1 million in compensation as a result of potholes damaging vehicles over the past six years.

Dave Harris, Colchester county and borough councillor, says potholes and road defects remain a “huge” problem across the town.

Figures released as part of a Freedom of Information request reveal the council has received 11,200 claims for compensation since 2011 with 945 successful claims.

As a result of damage and injury claims, as well as legal costs, the council has paid out more than £2.1 million.

Mr Harris said: “That is a huge amount, criminal really. It is disgraceful. There are many streets in my ward which are covered in potholes, I had to swerve to avoid one on my bike recently.”

Ivan Henderson, Harwich county councillor, has been campaigning for dangerous pothole repairs for years.

He said: “I have been saying for a long time that there should be a review of the criteria being used to identify what is classed as a pothole.

“There is £2.1 million now being stated, that figure could be a lot more.

“They are leaving potholes so deep they are causing so much damage to vehicles and endangering lives.”

An Essex County Council spokesman said: “These figures need to be seen in context as we are one of the largest authorities in the country with one of the largest road networks stretching over more than 5,000 miles.

“All compensation claims received by the council are investigated fully and damages are paid if the council is found to be liable.

“The financial figure provided is not only for compensation but includes other payments such as third party solicitors’ costs and court fees.

Last summer we completed a record-breaking 3.2 million square metres of road surface dressing to keep Essex roads in a better condition for longer, thanks to a £66 million investment.”

  • Ivan Henderson and Dave Harris are both standing for election. For a full list of candidates click HERE.