AQW 39211/22-27
Mr Andrew McMurray
Alliance Party
South Down
Tabled Date: 27/01/2026
Answered On Date: 11/02/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any contractual obligations in place, in relation to the quality and durability of (i) temporary; and) ii) long-term, repairs carried out by road maintenance contractors on her Department's behalf.
Answer:
Temporary and long‑term repairs, as distinct from structural resurfacing, are mainly delivered through Term Contracts for Small‑Scale and Responsive Works. The quality and durability requirements for these repairs are set out in the Specification for Highway Works, alongside contract‑specific amendments. Durability is ensured through compliance with the specification, which requires the use of approved materials meeting relevant Standards, adherence to defined construction and workmanship requirements, and the application of inspection and testing regimes. Temporary repairs are intended to address immediate safety hazards until a permanent repair is completed. They are not designed to provide long‑term durability, and the contract does not specify related time periods. Contractors must, however, ensure temporary repairs remain safe and effective for their short‑term purpose. Permanent repairs are covered by a 52‑week defect correction period, during which contractors must rectify any defects arising from their materials or workmanship. The forthcoming Road Maintenance Strategy is expected to improve how the condition and durability of repairs across the network are monitored.
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