Consideration in the discussion (I suggest) needs to look at what I consider to be two types of road pothole.  One is just wear and tear caused by the volume of traffic and something we see on our trunk roads.

However, the other type of pothole, I would suggest is more associated with other roads, is often caused by where the road has been dug up to install and/or repair services. I think that if this work is carried out then the whole surface should be replaced at the cost of the utility company and the work should be carried out by specialists resurfacing companies.

Over time this will raise the quality and safety of our roads at no cost to the local authorities (although there might be some cost involved for the LA's to police the work) although it will increase everyone utility bills.

I understand that some LA's in Scotland operate in this way.

Regards