Once a defect has been identified (either after it has been detected from an inspection or reported by the public - preferably using our Highway Reporting Tool) we'll assess it against our repair criteria and take appropriate action, such as raising an order for repair work to be carried out. Sometimes we may determine that work is not required at that time but we will monitor the location as part of our routine inspections.
Category 1 repairs
If the issue is potentially dangerous to life and limb (i.e. it is a Category 1 defect) work should commence within 2 hours of the repair being ordered - this can include making the location safe e.g. by erecting barriers, giving us time to order more permanent repairs. We operate a 24/7 out of hours emergency service to deal with these defects
Category 2 to 5 repairs
Categories 2 to 5 response times start at 12:01am the following working day to when the issue is assessed by Suffolk Highways and a decision made to order work. This enables the time between the placing of the order and midnight to be used to plan the remedial work and enable the full working days to be available for completion of such works.
If a defect is found or reported and there are already works planned at the same location within a reasonable timescale, it's unlikely that new works will be scheduled to correct the defect beforehand.
However, if the defect is reported and there is future programmed work to be carried out, a repair (perhaps temporary) may have to be made if there is too great a time gap between the defect being reported and when the planned work is scheduled to take place.
Category 6 repairs
The timescale for Category 6 repairs is 14 weeks. This category is used where the highway remains in a safe condition but some work is required. This will be programmed to take place when we are in the area, potentially undertaking other work, to make best use of our resources. We will ensure these works are completed within 14 weeks, or earlier where possible.