Agree with Ducatista here. It's a bit of a grey area and the Council usually has an excuse to get out of paying.

I'd still seek further advice though. If you Google the 'Honest John' website, you can write to him via e-mail and he will give you the latest ruling on pot holes and claiming from the local Council (if applicable). I've used Honest John for advice on other motoring matters and he's usually on the ball with most things motoring related. Good luck.