Unpredictable and unseasonal weather conditions in late summer and autumn have played havoc with Gore District Council’s resealing programme.
Council roading asset manager Murray Hasler said in a release yesterday motorists should be wary of loose chips on some resealed areas where the gravel top coat has not stuck to the bitumen.
The worst affected sites are Hyde St, Robertson St (from Charlton Rd to Pukaki St), Ontario St (a short section east of the stopbank) and part of Waimumu Rd.
Mr Hasler said all affected sections were relatively low speed due to legal speed restrictions or road alignment.
"Nevertheless, loose chip damage to windscreens may be a hazard," he said.
Mr Hasler said he wanted people to know the council was aware of the issues and would monitor problem areas until the contractor could carry out repairs.
"Unfortunately, permanent repairs rely on suitable weather conditions, which may not happen until spring."
In the meantime, the council’s contractor would monitor the problem sites and remove any build-up of loose chips where needed. Mr Hasler said there would be no cost to the council for the repair work.
The council’s 2024 resealing programme did not start well, with wet conditions at the beginning of the year delaying work. Resealing eventually got under way, albeit later than usual.
The weather was a significant factor in ensuring successful resealing, he said.
"The bitumen quickly cools down immediately after being sprayed but remains sticky and pliable while air and ground temperatures are mild.
"Normally, the sealing chips have had a month or two to settle and adhere to the bitumen. In this case, a relatively sudden drop in temperatures has not enabled this process to happen."
