Adam Simms

“I received evidence regarding the system of inspection utilised to identify and remedy any blocked drainage gullies. Two blocked gullies were found at the site of the accumulation of water upon the carriageway notwithstanding that an inspection undertaken only four days previously on 17 May 2021 had not identified those defects. They had not been included in cleansing works undertaken on 8 April 2022.”

“The evidence suggested that at around the point at which Mr [name redacted] lost control of his motor car there were two separate patches of standing water upon the carriageway. They were said to be 62m in length and 36m in length respectively. They occupied the majority of the width of the Eastbound carriageway. Water was noted to a depth of between 10 and 15mm. There was plainly a significant quantity of standing water which posed a serious hazard to road users.”

“The absence of any explanation for this accumulation, and the consequential absence of any remedial action undertaken to prevent a repetition of these events gives rise to a concern that the highway at that location remains at risk of water ingress (from whatever source) unless and until the cause can be established and appropriate remedial action taken.”