Is there anybody else who has had this same issue? If so, what things should I look out for to make sure they do a good job?
On a related note, why is so much road repair done where they leave masses of gravel on the road?!?

This kind of crappy road repair must be causing issues like this all over the place! What department of the council would be the best to complain and rant to!?!?
anyway, personal rant over!