West Sussex County Council is trialling new AI technology to make highway inspections safer, faster and more efficient.
The multi-year trial will equip eight highway inspection vehicles with dashboard-mounted cameras that automatically record road conditions and use AI to detect defects such as potholes, cracking, surface deterioration and faded road markings.
At present, inspectors identify defects while driving, then stop to photograph issues and manually enter details, which can be time-consuming and sometimes requires them to leave vehicles on busy roads.
The new system is designed to reduce that risk by capturing footage automatically and sending defect data directly into the council’s Confirm highway asset management system for inspectors to review and validate.
The council hopes the technology will free inspectors to cover more of the road network, support other operational work and reduce administrative tasks. Cabinet member Cllr Erika Woodhurst-Trueman said the trial supports the council’s wider Better Roads commitment and could help improve information, consistency and decision-making.
The trial will be regularly reviewed and measured against outcomes such as increased inspection mileage, fewer repeat visits, faster reporting, improved safety and possible environmental benefits from reduced journeys and fuel use. If successful, it could strengthen proactive maintenance across West Sussex.
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