Drivers in England now have access to interactive maps that display the performance of their local councils in addressing potholes and road conditions. Each council has been assessed and categorized with a red, amber, or green rating based on their performance and the current state of roads in their area.
The ratings indicate that red areas have the poorest road conditions, while green areas have the best. Out of the total councils evaluated, 11 received a red rating for the condition of their roads, while 26 were rated green. Most of the red-rated councils were located in London, with only three outside the capital: Derbyshire, Bath and North East Somerset, and West Northamptonshire.
The data also includes ratings on how efficiently councils respond to potholes. These ratings offer insight into the road conditions across England and London, allowing the public to track council performance in road maintenance.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the government’s increased funding of £7.3 billion to address road repairs, aiming to save drivers money and enhance road safety. The initiative aims to hold local councils accountable for delivering necessary improvements in road infrastructure.
Various stakeholders, including AA president Edmund King and British Cycling’s Brand and Engagement Director Caroline Julian, have expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of well-maintained roads for drivers and cyclists alike. RAC’s Head of Policy, Simon Williams, praised the move towards better road maintenance practices and increased funding for councils to ensure long-term improvements.
Kerry Winstanley, Managing Director of the Local Council Roads Innovation Group (LCRIG), welcomed the national ratings as an opportunity to target support and enhance local road networks. The ratings, combined with record investment, aim to empower authorities to prioritize preventative maintenance and foster collaboration in achieving a nationally green-rated road network.
