DANGEROUS potholes on a rural road in Sopley have been discussed by parish council representatives at a meeting with highways officials.

Cllr Gerald Lewis, vice chairman of Sopley Parish Council met with Hampshire County Council highways officers last week to discuss the worsening situation in Thatchers Lane, also known to local people as School Lane.

The road, which runs from Avon Tyrrell to Sopley Primary School, contains several potholes while the verge at the side of the narrow road has worn away leaving a steep drop for cars attempting to avoid the potholes or allow other vehicles to pass.

Speaking before the meeting, Cllr Lewis said: “We are aware of the problem along this stretch of road.

“There is a water course that runs along the length of the road and because of this pot holes regularly appear. Although they have been filled in, obviously these are temporary measures.

“We are hoping that more permanent repairs will solve the problem but that will involve a road closure. Ultimately moving the watercourse is the solution and that will also be discussed.

“The water course is washing out the gravel from underneath the road, which like many rural roads, is only covered by a thin layer of tarmac.

“The effect has been that, as well as the potholes, the road has narrowed.”

Cllr Lewis added: “Although this is a rural road, it is no less important and we have a good relationship with Hampshire County Council who have always been very responsive.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire County Council said where possible they strived to permanently repair the roads but often temporary measures were used until the highways team or council “Pothole Busters” were able to repair them properly.

Anyone with any concerns about potholes can contact the council on hants.gov.uk or phone them on 0845 6035633.