I am writing to you under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 to request the following information.  I am requesting a breakdown of the number of reported incidences to your local authority of pothole damage to (1) LCVs and vans between 3,000 and 3,500kg and (2) cars that required repairs in 2024, and a breakdown of the total costs of the repairs by vehicle type in 2024. In particular, can you provide me with:  

1. The total number of reported incidences of pothole damage to LCVs and vans between 3,000 and 3,500kg in 2024, that required vehicle repairs.

2. The total number of reported incidences of pothole damage to cars in 2024, that required vehicle repairs.

3. The total costs of repairs reported as a result of pothole damage to LCVs and vans between 3,000 and 3,500kg in 2024.

4. The total costs of repairs reported as a result of pothole damage to cars in 2024.

We have been advised by our Insurance department, that the council is unable to give the precise information being requested as:
• we are not always provided with full or accurate costs of repairs or the amounts being claimed;
• details of the make/model/type of vehicle damaged are not always given (whether in the claim submission, in any photos, on the invoice etc.). However, we are able to advise as follows.

1. In the calendar year 2024 a total of 63 claims were notified to the council’s insurance team and insurers in respect of alleged pothole damage to cars. The approximate total amount being claimed for repairs was £27,155.00.
2. In the calendar year 2024 one claim was notified to the council’s insurance team and insurers in respect of alleged pothole damage to a “large transporter van”. The approximate total amount being claimed for repairs was £154.00.
3. In the calendar year 2024 a total of 17 claims were notified to the council’s insurance team and insurers in respect of alleged pothole damage to vehicles of unspecified make/model/type. The approximate total amount being claimed for repairs was £6,090.00.