Michelle ThompsonA county council plans to use AI to detect potholes and accelerate road repairs.
Dashboard-mounted computer vision cameras in Surrey County Council’s highways vehicles will identify and photograph potholes, automatically logging them for repair.
Future upgrades will include detecting other issues like missing signs and overgrown vegetation, scheduling them for maintenance.
The council stated that this approach eliminates the need for highway inspectors to step onto roads, enhancing safety and efficiency. Potholes not requiring immediate attention will also be monitored regularly for timely repairs.
Matt Furniss, cabinet member for highways, transport, and economic growth, highlighted that nearly £300m has been allocated for road improvements in Surrey through 2028.
He added, “From April to December 2024 alone, our teams resurfaced 100 miles of roads and 30 miles of pavements. This proactive work will strengthen our highway network, reducing the future occurrence of potholes.”
Emily Martinez
