David Shepherd, Chair of the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT)’s Transport & Connectivity Board, has issued a response to the government’s recent announcement on pothole investment.

“We welcome the government’s commitment to accountability and to ensuring investment in local roads delivers real improvements for drivers,” he said. “Multi-year funding certainty is something local authorities have repeatedly called for over many years, so they can plan effectively and prioritise long-term, preventative maintenance over costly reactive repairs.

“However, withholding up to a third of funding from local authorities that are already managing a £17bn repair backlog risks being counterproductive.

“Local highway authorities are working hard under significant pressure – from decades of underinvestment, heavier vehicles, severe weather and increasing utility works – and what they need alongside scrutiny is genuine partnership and practical support.

“We are encouraged that red-rated councils will receive expert support. However, transparency and performance frameworks must be fair, clearly understood and allow local authorities to demonstrate the real complexity of maintaining their networks. We look forward to engaging with government on the detail of these new requirements”.

(Picture: Lee Hasler)