David Giles, Chair of the Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA), has issued a response to the appointment of Andy Burnham as the UK’s new Prime Minister.
“We hope that incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s time as Mayor of Greater Manchester has reinforced just how vital a well-maintained local road network is to supporting connectivity, economic growth and thriving communities,” said Mr Giles (pictured).
“That’s why it is essential that, as his Government now resets its priorities, previous commitments to invest £7.3 billion in local road maintenance over the next four years are not abandoned.
“Local roads across England and Wales are already in a disgraceful condition, with the backlog of repairs now standing at a staggering £18.62 billion. With every public service depending on a well-maintained and reliable road network it’s vital that the funding promised through to 2030 is delivered in full and not diverted
elsewhere.
“Investment in local road maintenance not only delivers smoother, safer journeys but also boosts productivity and economic growth. Honouring the promised funding commitment to 2030 would help prevent the short-term, patch-and-mend approach to potholes that frustrates all road users, wastes public money and allows the condition of our local roads to deteriorate even further.”
(Picture: AIA)
