Is this the most potholed street in Gravesham?

A mass of cracked, broken and crumbling tarmac, drivers using Saddington Street in Gravesend are having to creep around the craters.

The junction, which links the town centre’s one-way system with The Grove, Edwin Street and Peacock Street, is one of a growing number of Gravesham streets breaking up under the strain of the cold snap.

Kent County Council has agreed to spend at least £1 million on sorting out the problems caused by the prolonged cold snap but said this week it would not be able to start a full programme of repairs until April.

Council leader Cllr Paul Carter said: "You’ve got to do it when the weather’s right. You’ve got to wait for the frost to subside and for the water table to subside."

Repairs are being carried out ahead of the more permanent works but are being done on a 'fix and find’ approach with crews working in areas with the greatest need.

has spent almost £250,000 in the last four years on compensation to people whose cars have been damaged by potholes.

The figure paid out has increased year-on-year from £25,187.40 in 2006 to £83,903.72 last year. It remains unclear how many requests for compensation have been turned down.

And it isn’t just potholes causing a problem for residents.

One Gravesham pensioner says she is seeking compensation after tripping on a cracked pavement.

Barbara Cook was left with a number of injuries, including a cracked rib, after tripping on cracked paving slabs in Astra Drive, Gravesend.

To report a fault, call Kent Highway Services on 0845 824 7800, visit www.kent.gov.uk/highways or email kenthighwayservices@kent.gov.uk