Lostwithiel, Cornwall – A fed-up motorist took matters into their own hands in May 2023, illegally filling a large, month-old pothole at the intersection of Tanhouse Road and Bodmin Hill with concrete. The rogue repair temporarily reopened the road, which had been closed due to the hazard, much to the appreciation of local residents.
However, Cornwall Council was quick to shut the road down again, condemning the DIY fix as unauthorized and unsafe. Officials have launched an investigation into the incident, particularly as the individual also reportedly removed official warning signs without permission.
Councilor Colin Martin voiced his frustration over the prolonged delays in repairing the pothole, attributing them to budget cuts and understaffing within the council. He described the incident as a stark symbol of broader failures in public infrastructure.
While many locals expressed gratitude for the swift, albeit unofficial, resolution to the persistent problem, authorities are sternly warning against such unauthorized repairs. They emphasize that these actions can create new safety risks and complicate proper, long-term maintenance efforts.