A major survey of the island's roads will determine where maintenance is most needed.

Specialist vehicles will be used to assess the state of strategic, secondary and local routes.

John Houghton MHK, the member responsible for highways at the Department of Infrastructure, said: 'The vast majority of the Island’s highways will be surveyed between now and the beginning of November. This work helps us to build an accurate picture of the condition of our roads and where the department’s maintenance budget needs to be invested.'

Motorists are being asked to look out for temporary traffic management measures as one of the vehicles moves at walking pace. Another will be releasing a large slick of water as it travels to test wet skid resistance.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne said: 'Including highways, the department is committed to maintaining approximately ?1 billion of key assets and delivering a high quality infrastructure that supports our communities and the growth of the Manx economy.

'While finances remain under pressure, the maintenance of our roads is a priority and the survey work being carried out will assist our long-term strategic planning.'


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