Recycled clothes used to tackle potholes

Old clothes are being used to repair potholes as part of a new trial.

Run by Maidstone Borough Council and sustainable materials company Recool, the trial is testing a pothole repair material made from recycled textile waste in Mote Park and Penenden Heath.

Rachel Rodwell, cabinet member for climate transition and nature recovery, said the effects of fast fashion were being turned into an opportunity.

"We're exploring a practical solution that could reduce waste, cut carbon emissions and support the circular economy," Rodwell said.

Five potholes, two at the park and three at the heath, have been repaired using an experimental, low-carbon product which uses recycled textile waste to fill most of the pothole, with a specialist surfacing layer applied on top.

The pilot is taking place on council-owned land and does not involve public roads, which are maintained by Kent County Council.

According to the charity Waste and Resources Action Programme, the UK generates about 1.45 million tonnes of used textiles every year, with almost half ending up in general waste rather than being reused or recycled.

The repairs will be monitored over the coming months to assess their performance under regular park use and weather conditions, the council said.

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