Folk living near an Ipswich street have said that the potholes on their estate are becoming dangerously large, with a couple "shaped similar to the country of Cyprus."
Residents in Ravenswood have said potholes in Alnesbourn Crescent need to be "measured in feet, not inches" due to how big some of them have got.
More than one of these potholes has been likened to "the island of Cyprus" in shape, with one being in place for around a decade and is visible on Google Maps images, prompting claims it has been left for far too long.
Along the road, there are said to be more than a dozen potholes, turning what should be a routine drive into what one neighbour described as “a slalom course”.
At least two of the holes sit next to square-section drain covers, leaving sharp iron edges exposed that residents fear could "slash" a tyre if a wheel clips them while turning.
Drivers report being forced to edge towards the opposite carriageway to avoid the deepest craters, raising concerns about the risk of a collision and the safety of drivers and vehicles.
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Ipswich borough councillor for the Priory Heath ward, which includes Ravenswood, Owen Bartholomew, said: “I fully understand the frustration of residents in Ravenswood regarding potholes.
“Residents may be aware that I have had numerous issues trying to get potholes, such as the one on Alnesbourn crescent fixed.
“However, because it doesn't meet Suffolk County Council's minimum requirement to take action, they don't get fixed and often forgotten about.
“I would once again urge Suffolk County Council Highways to reconsider these potholes and take action swiftly as the government has provided money for these to be fixed."
A spokesperson for Suffolk County Council said: "As many parts of the country are experiencing, periods of prolonged wet weather combined with occasional freezing temperatures can lead to a significant increase in potholes across the highway network.
“Alnesbourn Crescent and Downham Boulevard are inspected on a regular basis, and any defects identified that meet our criteria, either through routine inspections or customer reports, will be ordered for repair.
“We encourage residents to report any issues to Suffolk Highways, via the Online Reporting Tool.”
Ipswich councillor Roxanne Downes, added: "Ravenswood, as is the rest of Ipswich, is plagued with enormous amounts of potholes.
"SCC long term decision to outsource the work to third parties has resulted in less work being carried out and a total lack of local pride in the workmanship.
"Ravenswood has been blighted with years of patched repairs with no attempt to replace like for like and a belief that tarmac is a suitable alternate. Even pavements are now being filled or patched with tarmac.
"SCC have been given extra funding from the government to address the backlog. I have seen lots of areas marked for repair, but so far, very little action.
"I would like to see SCC bring this service back in house where local people can be paid to do the work, rather than contractors from outside Suffolk."
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