A MULTI-million pound cash injection for Renfrewshire’s crumbling carriageways is paying dividends, with a dramatic drop in pothole compensation payouts.

So far this year, less than £10,500 has been paid out to drivers who have had their cars damaged by craters in the roads, compared to more than £73,000 in 2018/19 and more than £57,000 in 2016/17.

Earlier this year, work began on a £40million improvement plan for Renfrewshire’s roads, which Johnstone councillor Emma Rodden concedes were “terrible.”

READ MORE: Driven to despair over ‘missing’ roads as Renfrewshire Council announce repair plans

She said she is pleased to see the major investment already starting to bear fruit.

Councillor Rodden, who represents Johnstone North and the villages, told The Gazette: “It wasn’t surprising motorists were putting in claims, as the roads were in a terrible state.

“While exceptionally bad weather will always have an impact, we need to manage the things we can control better – and our roads programme has made a start in doing that.

The Gazette: Cllr Emma Rodden Cllr Emma Rodden

“If it stops cars being damaged and the council losing desperately-needed resources at the same time, that’s a win-win.”

Some of the roads which have received long-awaited attention include Quarry Street, Quarrelton Road and parts of Beith Road, in Johnstone.

In total, 95 roads will benefit from carriageway resurfacing this year.

Councillor Rodden added: “My job means I drive all over Renfrewshire and I see freshly-repaired roads in every corner of the authority. 

The Gazette: Cllr Andy Steel Cllr Andy Steel

“Quarry Street, behind Ludovic Square, was awful until it was resurfaced this summer and it was especially pleasing to see Quarrelton Road brought up to scratch, providing a much better environment for staff, pupils and parents at St Margaret’s Primary.

“Getting the busy junction at Morrisons in order has made a huge difference to drivers coming in and out of Johnstone.”

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Councillor Andy Steel, who represents Johnstone South and Elderslie, added: “Not only was investment in roads urgently needed, it was frustrating to see the council paying out money to repair cars damaged by the many potholes in our streets.

“I’m delighted the figure has slumped in the first half of the year.” 

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