Cr Olsen was concerned that roads in the vineyard area were especially hazardous and posed a threat to motorists and their vehicles if caution was not exercised.

Cessnock council’s group leader community services, Waid Crockett, said the rain had exacerbated the city’s road problems and said more staff had been put on to cope with the growing problems.

Mr Crockett said the council would spend $5million a year of state government money for the next four years to fix Broke and McDonalds roads at Pokolbin, with the work starting in April.

‘‘Wet weather always causes problems with our road network,’’ Mr Crockett said.

‘‘Heavy or ongoing periods of rain make it difficult for staff to get ahead of the problems we encounter.’’

Mr Crockett said the $20million funding was on top of the council’s capital works program but still was not enough to repair the city’s entire road network.

Cr Olsen agreed the council’s road crews were struggling to keep up with the potholes.

‘‘They are working hard but each time it rains they are back to square one,’’ he said.

‘‘Residents and tourists are going to have to be patient until we get our maintenance program in place.

‘‘Until then they should be patient and careful on the roads and be aware that we are experiencing problems.

‘‘Roads are going to be particularly busy during the school holidays with a lot of tourists coming into the area.’’