Surface Dressing and Micro-Surfacing

As part of its planned and proactive approach to highway maintenance, Hull City Council undertakes an annual surface dressing programme.

The programme focuses mainly on roads that form part of Hull’s major road network and main bus routes, which are showing early signs of wear and deterioration.

Surface dressing is a preventative maintenance treatment that seals the road surface, helping to avoid more serious damage and costly repairs in the future.

Prior to surface dressing taking place, the council inspects the road and carries out preparation works, including patching and crack sealing, where necessary, to ensure the road is ready for treatment.

Surface dressing aims to extend the lifespan of roads, improve quality and enhance skid resistance - making them safer for all road users.

In 2025, 12 key roads across the city received the much-needed upgrade. In total, 42,681m² of road surface was improved through the programme.

Locations for the next programme are still being considered, but will cover a similar number of streets to help proactively maintain the city’s major road network.

Access the current surface dressing programme

Like the council’s surface dressing programme, an annual micro surface dressing programme is also carried out.

This programme aims to enhance the quality of mainly residential roads, which are now starting to show signs of deterioration.

Micro-surfacing removes any existing shallow defects, such as potholes and cracking, while sealing up the road to water ingress. This will help to improve the condition and safety of Hull’s roads for residents, commuters and visitors.

In 2025, 30 roads in the city were treated. In total, 39,928m² of road surface was improved through the programme.

Locations for next year’s programme are still being considered, but the programme will cover a similar number of streets to help proactively maintain the city’s residential road network.

Access the current Micro Surfacing programme