The RAC has reported a significant increase in pothole claims over a three-year span, highlighting a 90% rise. This statistic reflects growing concerns about road maintenance across various councils in the UK. The inquiry involved 207 councils, of which 177 provided responses detailing their pothole compensation claims.
Key Findings from the RAC Report
Among the councils responding, Derbyshire County Council recorded the most dramatic increase in claims, soaring from 224 to 3,307. Despite this, Councillor Charlotte Hill of Derbyshire emphasized a reduction in claims by 72% since May 2025. Hill suggested a proactive shift in maintenance can help manage issues before they affect residents.
Other Notable Increases
Glasgow City Council and Oxfordshire County Council followed closely with notable increases in claims between 2021 and 2024. Councillor Andrew Gant, overseeing transport management in Oxfordshire, advocated for a focus on preventative maintenance. He stated, “This approach is more cost-effective than addressing potholes after they’ve already formed.”
To that end, Oxfordshire has invested nearly £14.5 million since 2024 in extensive surface dressing programs, the most significant in two decades. This preservation technique aims to avert the formation of potholes.
Government Initiatives for Road Maintenance
A spokesperson from the Department for Transport revealed a commitment of £7.3 billion over the next four years to assist councils in resurfacing roads. This funding aims to remedy years of underinvestment in the road network.
- £7.3 billion planned investment over four years
- Shift from reactive to proactive maintenance strategies
- Local authorities urged to focus on prevention
However, a Local Government Association representative noted ongoing financial pressures limiting councils’ capabilities in road maintenance. They indicated that while new funding would aid in improving local roads, transitioning from reactive repairs to preventative measures would require both time and resources.
Conclusion
The rise in pothole claims underscores the critical need for councils to rethink their road maintenance strategies. Emphasizing prevention over repair may prove essential in addressing the growing issue of potholes, ultimately leading to better road safety and reduced claims in the future.
