Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Councils Must Demonstrate Progress on Potholes
Greetings, Net Zero News Community,
Exciting news for all motorists and pedestrians in England! The government is taking a stand against potholes by demanding councils to show progress or risk losing funding. This initiative comes as part of a record £1.6 billion investment in highway maintenance, with an additional £500 million specifically allocated to fill a staggering 7 million potholes annually.
Starting from mid-April, local authorities will begin receiving their share of this funding. However, there’s a catch – to receive the full amount, councils must publish annual progress reports and demonstrate public confidence in their efforts. Failure to meet these conditions will result in a 25% deduction, equating to £125 million in total.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, has unveiled a whopping £4.8 billion funding for 2025/6 for National Highways. This funding will support critical road schemes and the maintenance of motorways and major A-roads, ensuring safe and efficient travel for all road users. Some projects in the pipeline include the A428 Black Cat scheme in Cambridgeshire, improvements to the A47 around Norwich, and the M3 J9 scheme in Hampshire.
In a statement, Heidi Alexander expressed, “After years of neglect, we’re tackling the pothole plague, building vital roads, and ensuring every penny is delivering results for the taxpayer. The public deserves to know how their councils are improving local roads, and this funding boost comes with the condition of showing progress or risking losing a quarter of it.”
Recent data from the RAC reveals that drivers encounter an average of 6 potholes per mile in England and Wales, with repair costs amounting to an average of £600. The AA reports that fixing potholes is a top priority for 96% of drivers, highlighting the widespread impact of these road hazards.
The government is on a mission to rebuild Britain through investment in critical infrastructure, fostering growth, and saving repair costs for the public. Councils are required to submit detailed reports by 30 June 2025, outlining expenditure, pothole repairs, road conditions, and efforts to minimise disruptions from streetworks.
Furthermore, councils must engage with communities to determine work priorities by the end of October. Residents can also report potholes through a dedicated online portal, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly.
In a bid to alleviate the financial burden on motorists, the government has announced a freeze on fuel duty for another year, providing an average saving of £59 for car drivers. Additionally, the £4.8 billion allocated for National Highways includes funds for network repairs, daily operations, and improvement schemes to stimulate growth and housing.
As we move towards a future with safer and well-maintained roads, let’s support these initiatives and work together towards achieving a pothole-free environment for all road users.
Image credit: iStock
