'Mineshaft pothole' in Bridlington Road, South Oxhey

The hole in Bridlington Road, South Oxhey, has grown deeper and wider since it was first reported at the end of March and cars have reportedly had to swerve to avoid it or move at a crawl.

As it is next to the South Oxhey Central development, the road is used by works lorries and is difficult to avoid due to hoarding.

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Three Rivers councillor Steve Cox says he was told it is set for repair work by April 19.

However, he worries this may not be soon enough. The Labour councillor said: “By then it might be all the way across the road.”

The pothole in Bridlington Road/Cllr Steve Cox (Image: Cllr Steve Cox)

“Since we first reported it it's become like a mineshaft,” he added. “It’s shockingly dangerous.”

He said locals have described it “hammering” their vehicles, while claiming it is difficult to see when filled with rainwater and is dangerous for cyclists.

The pothole when it was first reported (Image: Cllr Steve Cox)

Hertfordshire County Council said highways teams aim to deal with the most significant potholes within 24 hours but depending on the hazard others that are big enough to need rapid attention may take five to 20 days.

The council encouraged motorists to report potholes online.