Transport Scotland's operating companies will carry out a blitz on potholes following the allocation of an extra £2 million to tackle the problem, Finance Secretary John Swinney said on Monday.

Mr Swinney said: "Well maintained transport networks are vital to the vigour of Scotland's economy and prosperity. The winter has caused a lot of defects on our national roads. This additional £2 million will enable our operating companies to repair much more potholes and larger areas of damage in the coming weeks and follows the previous allocation of an additional £2 million earlier in the winter.


"This work adds to the Scottish Government's robust winter response including initiatives, such as additional ice patrols, that were announced in previous months Collectively these measures will provide Transport Scotland, its operating companies and the public with more tools to help tackle the effects of severe weather, keeping our road network moving and Scotland open for business."

The £2 million will be split between the four operating companies managed by Amey, BEAR and Scotland Transerv on the basis of need, condition and length of networks. Work will begin immediately.

(GK/KMcA)