Subsidence
Reported via desktop in the Pothole (NH) category anonymously at 01:10, Sat 18 October 2025
Sent to National Highways less than a minute later. FixMyStreet ref: 8310256.
A35 at Box Cottage, Chideock (OS SY342420,092840)
Whilst the large pothole that deveoped at this location last year has now been "fixed" the underlying damaged storm sewer has not been repaired and again the road surface is again subsiding (though in a less visually obvious way). This is causing vibration from the high volume of heavy lorries that is damaging buildings. In addition, when it rains sufficiently muddy water is being forced up through the new surface which, given time, will break up the surface and create another large pothole.
The following is a direct quote from Claire Dean of Balfour Beatty (19th February 2025) in an email response to the earlier complaint "We totally understand that the water (sewage) pipe issues are contributing to the failed surface, but not knowing at this stage how long it would be for Wessex Water to undertake the repairs, resurfacing of the area would be an interim to help against the depression that is currently there."
I understand from Wessex Water that their foul sewer is not damaged. They are not responsible for maintaining the Highways storm sewer.
In addition, I also support the complaint regarding laurel hedging growing over the footway a few metres west of this location. In addition to obstructing the footway this is also significantly reducing the sightlines for vehicles emerging from Ruins Lane to the west and the shared access on the eastern side.
Updates
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Still open, via questionnaire, 11:32, Sat 15 November 2025
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Subsidence is steadily getting worse and the overgrowth of both road and footpath continues to spread.
Posted anonymously at 12:34, Sat 13 December 2025
Still open, via questionnaire -
10th Jan 2026: While the surface is cosmetically better, the actual problem is now just as bad as it was before Christmas 2023 with the broken road surface and potholes. It is clear that Balfour Beetie have no intentions of fixing the broken, worn out sewer that that is causing this expensive problem, even though they are fully aware of the cause and their responsibility for it. No doubt this expense will eventually pass to the National Highways when they take over the contract in a few months time, more public money wasted.
Posted anonymously at 13:23, Saturday 10 January 2026
Still open, via questionnaire
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