Government demands action on potholes

The UK government has warned councils across the South West to prove they are tackling the region’s pothole problem or risk losing millions in funding.

As part of a £1.6 billion national highway maintenance investment, local authorities in the South West are set to receive an extra £85 million to repair roads, but only if they provide clear evidence of progress. Councils that fail to meet strict reporting conditions will have 25% of their allocated funds withheld, amounting to a potential loss of £21 million for the region.

The move marks a tougher stance on road maintenance accountability, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledges to end years of deteriorating road conditions, which have led to costly vehicle repairs and safety concerns for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Starting in mid-April, local councils will begin receiving their share of the record £1.6 billion pothole repair fund, but to access the full amount, they must publish detailed annual progress reports by June 30, 2025. These reports must outline:

• The number of potholes filled

• Total road maintenance spending

• The condition of local roads

• Measures to minimise streetworks disruption

• Plans for long-term road maintenance and weather resilience

Additionally, by October 2025, councils must show they have engaged with local communities on road improvement priorities. A dedicated online portal will also allow the public to report potholes directly to their local council.

The government has also announced a separate £4.8 billion investment for National Highways to maintain major roads and deliver infrastructure improvements. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “After years of neglect, we’re unblocking the South West’s roads, fixing the plague of potholes, building vital roads, and ensuring every penny delivers results for taxpayers.”

Potholes have long been a source of frustration for motorists. Data from the RAC reveals that drivers in England and Wales encounter an average of six potholes per mile, while the AA reports that 96% of drivers consider fixing potholes a top priority.

Vehicle damage from potholes costs UK drivers an average of £600 per repair, making road maintenance a pressing financial issue for households.

Alongside road improvements, the government has extended the fuel duty freeze for another year, going some small way towards helping motorists manage costs amid ongoing global economic uncertainty.