Drivers on Mona Vale Road have faced blown tyres, bent rims and tows from massive potholes, forcing urgent calls for action as a short break in heavy rain finally allowed road crews to carry out stronger repairs across the Northern Beaches.
Heavy Rain and Road Damage
Sydney recorded its wettest August since 1998, with rainfall creating widespread cracks and potholes. During the downpours, crews used quick temporary patches to keep roads safe, but these fixes failed fast in wet conditions.
Once dry weather returned in late August, crews revisited damaged sites to reseal and strengthen them with crack sealing, heavy patching and resurfacing.
Council and State Responsibilities
Northern Beaches Council stressed that it maintains local roads, while Transport for NSW manages arterial routes such as Mona Vale Road, Pittwater Road, Warringah Road, Wakehurst Parkway and Forest Way.
Residents often misdirect complaints to Council, leading to frustration. Official advice directs Mona Vale Road users to report issues through Service NSW.
Community Experiences
Residents shared stories of tyre damage and breakdowns caused by potholes on Mona Vale Road, some reporting multiple cars hit within hours. One motorist described a “mega pothole” near Kimbriki that left a vehicle needing to be towed.
Another said seven other cars were disabled in the time it took to organise a tow truck. Online forums show locals placing cones to warn other drivers, highlighting the risk to road safety.
Repairs and Reporting
Council reported that from 1 July to 31 August more than 1,500 potholes were logged, with 1,355 made safe. Over one weekend in August, 249 potholes were repaired with 10 tonnes of asphalt laid.
Additional crews funded by a rates variation are working to address the backlog. Residents are urged to continue reporting problems so crews and contractors can respond before further rain.
Published 08-September-2025
