The warmer weather over the past few weeks means Devon’s annual surface dressing season is now underway.
Between May and September, Devon County Council will treat around 150 sites, covering nearly 250 kilometres of road.
Surface dressing is different from pothole repairs – it’s a preventative treatment used on roads that are still in reasonable condition.
It helps stop potholes forming and extends the life of the surface, reducing the need for more costly repairs later.
The process involves spraying a layer of bitumen emulsion onto the road, followed by stone chippings which are rolled in to seal the surface and improve grip.
And because the chippings need warm, dry conditions to bond, work is carried out during the summer months.
However, work depends on the weather – and if it’s cold or wet work may be rescheduled.
Following treatment most roads reopen the same day. Temporary speed limits are put in place to help the new surface bed in and to reduce the risk from loose chippings.
Within a day the newly dressed road is swept to remove loose chippings; and to minimise waste these chippings are recycled. They are collected, cleaned and reused on future schemes.

Still time to share views on culture in Exeter and future of city centre
Torbay Council under fire over Exeter health lab deal
Exeter achieves highest-ever position in QS World University Rankings
Have your say on improvements to play areas in Exeter
Misery of unfinished Exeter homes estate dwellers
Scam alert parking fine text messages
Police seek help to find wanted Axminster woman
Car park warning for Exeter drivers
Business crime reduction success
Sidmouth Airshow lineup announcement
New paddling pools work to start in Heavitree soon
Local Hospitality Businesses Join Forces with Police to Keep Children Safe
Court orders Devon Care Home manager pays £4090.00 following CQC brought prosecution
ROYAL VISIT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF NEW ALMSHOUSES IN OTTERY ST MARY
Bid to demolish disused toilets to make extra parking spaces
Council apologises for ‘family silver’ sell-off alarm
