The Department of Infrastructure is urging road users to be aware of the presence of a slow moving survey vehicle over the next two weeks.

The deflectograph, which travels at walking pace, will be in operation until 01 November 2015 as part of a detailed assessment of the Isle of Man’s highways network.

The vehicle is being used to gather technical data to assist the Department in prioritising its road maintenance programme. It will be operating round the clock, but routes will be carefully planned in an effort to minimise traffic disruption at peak times.

The deflectograph will be accompanied by a traffic management vehicle and staff operating stop/go boards where appropriate.

The Department will provide updates on the location of the survey vehicle via its Twitter account @iominfra and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/iominfrastructure.  

The deflectograph measures how much the surface of the road moves as the vehicle drives along. This gives an indication of the state of the highway foundations and helps the Department to estimate the remaining lifespan of the road.

Other specialist survey vehicles have been deployed in recent weeks to assess the ride quality and wet skid resistance of Manx roads.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘This information will provide an accurate picture of the condition of our highways and help the Department to target its resources where they are most needed. Road maintenance is a key part of our commitment to maintaining a good quality infrastructure that supports our communities and the growth of the Manx economy.’

He added: ‘The deflectograph is slow moving and I would like to thank road users for their patience and cooperation while this essential work is carried out. People can find out where the survey vehicle will be operating by checking the Department’s social media channels.’