The UK Government has announced a significant £1.6 billion investment in road maintenance to address the widespread issue of potholes. This initiative, aimed at repairing seven million potholes by 2026, promises smoother and safer journeys for drivers across England. But what does this mean for you as a road user? Let’s break down the details of the plan and its expected impact.
The £1.6 billion fund is part of a broader effort to enhance road infrastructure in England. Here’s what you need to know:
- Investment Timeline: The work will be carried out in 2025 and 2026, targeting seven million potholes nationwide.
- Technology Integration: Councils are expected to use innovative methods, such as pothole-mapping technologies, to maximise efficiency.
- Funding Allocations: Local highways authorities will receive a £500 million funding increase as part of the government’s Plan for Change. Specific allocations include:
- £327 million for local authorities in the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and Humber.
- £372 million for local authorities in the East Midlands and West Midlands.
- £244 million for local authorities in the East of England.
- £322 million for local authorities in the South East and London.
- £300 million for local authorities in the South West.
- Reduced Repair Costs: Drivers in England and Wales encounter an average of six potholes per mile, with pothole damage costing an average of £500 per vehicle. Fewer potholes mean significant savings for road users.
- Improved Safety: Smoother roads reduce the risk of accidents caused by sudden swerves or lost control.
The investment provides much-needed resources for councils, helping them address long-standing maintenance backlogs. The RAC has praised the initiative, with head of policy Simon Williams stating:
“This is the biggest one-off road maintenance funding settlement councils in England have ever been given, so we have high hopes it’s the turning point that ends the degradation of our roads and finally delivers fit-for-purpose, smooth surfaces for drivers and all other road users.”
He also emphasised the importance of preventative maintenance to stop future potholes.
Drivers play a crucial role in identifying problem areas. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Report Potholes: Use your local council’s website or apps like FixMyStreet to report potholes. The Government also encourages the public to report potholes directly via their official GOV.UK reporting tool.
- Follow Updates: Stay informed about how the fund is being used in your area by checking council updates.
Alongside the pothole repairs, the Government has extended the fuel duty freeze for another year, saving the average driver £59. This move helps ease financial pressures on drivers while supporting ongoing road improvement efforts.
The £1.6 billion road maintenance fund marks a step forward in tackling one of the UK’s most persistent infrastructure challenges. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented:
“Broken roads can risk lives and cost families hundreds if not thousands of pounds on repairs. That’s a cost that can easily be avoided by investing properly in our roads. Through our Plan for Change, we’re determined to put more money back into the pockets of hardworking people and improve living standards. That’s why we’re giving councils funding to repair our roads and get Britain moving again – with a clear expectation that they get on with the job.”
By 2026, smoother roads and fewer potholes should make a tangible difference for millions of drivers. Public participation and continued government investment are essential to maintaining this momentum.
Why not check out our The Best and Worst Motorways and A-Roads in the UK? Blog for more information? We also produce a range of weekly blogs on various topics, which can be found in the blog section of our website.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts are one of the UK's leading car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit every need. To find out more, check out our comprehensive car leasing guides or call one of our experts on 0345 811 9595.
