DRIVERS could notice an improvement in our roads if the trial of a more weather-resistant resurfacing substance is successful.

It follows a briefing event at the Scottish Parliament, attended by Cumnock and New Cumnock councillor Jim McMahon, during which the new product was unveiled.

Ayrshire Roads Alliance are trialling the new bitumen material which is stronger and stands up to our severe and wet weather.

Created by Scottish company, MacRebur, it consists of plastic pellets, made from recycled waste plastic, that are added to asphalt along with bitumen. This gives the asphalt flexibility so that it can expand and contract reducing the chance of cracking and potholes.

500m (550 yards) of the C7 Dunlop to Neilston road, has been resurfaced using this new technique, pictured below.

Over the coming weeks, experts will take samples from the road surface for UKAS lab testing and inspectors will monitor the surface for any defects.

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “The company was invited by the council to East Ayrshire to make a presentation to fellow councillors, employees and our bitumen suppliers. Our councillors also visited Dumfries and Galloway, the first Scottish local authority to trial this material, to view roads already resurfaced.

“Bitumen really hasn’t moved on from the days when tar macadam was developed near to Muirkirk. This product is an interesting development and a technological advance that we wholeheartedly welcome.

“We will monitor the section of road between Dunlop and Neilston closely before making any decision on whether this product will be used widely across East Ayrshire.”