SCOTTISH Borders Council (SBC) has asked for patience following the “rapid appearance of potholes” on the region’s roads this winter.

The council says that the “prolonged and severe” wintry conditions experienced over the past few weeks have “escalated the damage” to road surfaces.

SBC added that it is aiming to repair the roads “as quickly as possible”.

“Council staff are trying their very best to manage the ongoing challenge of repairing road damage caused by winter weather, as well as delivering our planned road repairs and improvement schemes,” said Gordon Edgar, SBC’s executive member for travel and transport.

“We absolutely recognise the public concern regarding the rapid appearance of potholes at this time, and are committing all the resources we can to address these when the weather permits,” added Mr Edgar, a councillor for Selkirkshire.

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“Whilst the council undertakes regular monthly inspections of A-class roads and at varying intervals on the rest of our extensive network, it is important that Borderers play their part and report issues online at www.scotborders.gov.uk/potholes to allow us to investigate and undertake emergency repairs where required.

“However, I would ask that the public remain patient and understanding, especially as we deal with multiple issues at this time and be mindful that temporary repairs, particularly during the winter, can be a very short-term measure. Please drive carefully and take note of the conditions.”

According to SBC, “an extra £2.2 million for road repairs was made available following the council tax increase in April 2020/21”, adding to the £80m budget for “ongoing and future road network investment”.

The council says that the winter weather has seen crews out gritting the roads every day since December 25, leading to the delay in road repairs.