Pothole Claims Against Bridgend County Borough Council

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Pothole Claims Against Bridgend County Borough Council

Last updated: 16 April 2026

Bridgend County Borough Council is responsible for maintaining the roads within its jurisdiction in South Wales, an area located between Swansea and Cardiff. Under the Highways Act 1980 section 41, Bridgend County Borough Council has a statutory duty to ensure that highways under its control are maintained properly and safely.

Bridgend County Borough Council's Duty to Maintain Roads - Highways Act 1980 Section 41

The Highways Act 1980 section 41 outlines the legal obligation of Bridgend County Borough Council to keep roads in a state of reasonable repair. This includes ensuring that potholes are promptly addressed and repaired to prevent damage to vehicles and injuries to pedestrians. If you suffer vehicle damage due to an unattended or poorly maintained pothole, this could be a breach of the council's duty under section 41.

How to Report a Pothole to Bridgend County Borough Council

If you encounter a pothole that has caused damage to your vehicle, it is important to report it immediately. You can do so by visiting the official website of Bridgend County Borough Council at https://www.bridgend.gov.uk/residents/roads-transport-and-parking/roads-and-pavements/. The council provides an online form where you can describe the pothole and provide details about its location. Reporting the issue helps ensure that the council is aware of the problem and can take necessary action.

Making a Pothole Damage Claim Against Bridgend County Borough Council

When making a claim for pothole damage against Bridgend County Borough Council, it is crucial to gather evidence that supports your case. The first step involves taking clear photographs of the pothole from multiple angles to document its size and condition at the time of the incident. obtaining repair quotes from reputable mechanics will provide tangible proof of the extent of the damage and associated costs.

The timeline for making a claim is governed by the Limitation Act 1980, which stipulates that claims must be filed within three years of the date when the damage occurred. Delaying your claim beyond this period may result in it being barred by law.

What If Bridgend County Borough Council Rejects Your Claim?

If Bridgend County Borough Council rejects your pothole damage claim, they might use section 58 of the Highways Act 1980 as a defence. This section allows the council to escape liability if they can demonstrate that they had a reasonable inspection and maintenance regime in place at the time of the incident.

If you are unsatisfied with the council's response or decision, you may consider escalating your claim to the county court. you do not need a claims management company for this process; handling it yourself or seeking legal advice from a solicitor can be equally effective.

Sources and References

Highways Act 1980
Bridgend County Borough Council: https://www.bridgend.gov.uk/residents/roads-transport-and-parking/roads-and-pavements/
Limitation Act 1980

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a pothole damage claim against Bridgend County Borough Council?

Yes, if you have suffered vehicle damage due to a pothole on a road maintained by Bridgend County Borough Council, you can seek compensation from them under the Highways Act 1980.

What does the Highways Act 1980 say about potholes and local authorities like Bridgend County Borough Council?

The Highways Act 1980 Section 41 states that highway authorities, including Bridgend County Borough Council, have a duty to maintain roads. This includes repairing potholes promptly once they are made aware of their existence.

What evidence do I need for a pothole damage claim against Bridgend County Borough Council?

To make a successful claim, you should gather photographic evidence of the pothole, details of when and where it occurred, repair quotes from your mechanic showing how much it cost to fix your vehicle, and any witness statements or incident reports.

Do I need to report a dangerous pothole before making a damage claim against Bridgend County Borough Council?

It is advisable to report the pothole to Bridgend County Borough Council as soon as possible after discovering it. This can help in establishing that the council was aware of the issue and did not take appropriate action within a reasonable timeframe.

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