MORE than £2.1million in compensation has been paid out due to potholes damaging cars with campaigners calling for money to be invested into road repairs.

Figures released via a Freedom of Information request reveal Essex County Council has received 11,200 claims for compensation since 2011 - with 945 of them being successful.

As a result of damage and injury claims, as well as legal costs, the council has paid out more than £2.1million.

Basildon mayor David Harrison, who is a Wickford Independent councillor, has fought for more to be done to tackle potholes blighting south Essex.

He said: “That’s a lot of money. Surely it would make more sense to spend money repairing potholes than paying out for people’s claims?

“The issue is, the council leaves it too long until they go in and fix them. If the council acted quickly they wouldn’t have to make such a huge payout.”

Taxi driver Ralph Morgan, 74, who lives in Sandon Road, Pitsea, said: “The reason why I haven’t had to put in a claim is because as a taxi driver we all know where they are.

“But new drivers in the town can easily hit potholes.

“I’d like Essex County Council to do the repairs properly - not just put a bit of asphalt into the hole, but to resurface these roads properly.”

An Essex County Council spokesman added: “These figures need to be seen in context as we are one of the largest authorities in the country with one of the largest road networks stretching over more than 5,000 miles.

“All compensation claims received by the council are investigated fully and damages are paid if the council is found to be liable.

“The financial figure provided is not only for compensation but includes other payments such as third party solicitors’ costs and court fees.

“Over the last few years we have focused resources on our priority routes to keep Essex residents and businesses moving.Last summer we completed a record-breaking 3.2million square metres of road surface dressing.”