Online tyre retailer Blackcircles has published a report in which the company highlights the 10 UK areas where drivers are most likely to hit a pothole.
Between 2021 and 2025, 1.22 million potholes were reported across the UK, with some councils recording significantly higher volumes than others, says the report. Overall, pothole numbers have increased by 5.5% in the past half-decade across all council areas studied.
When adjusted for road length, the data reveals a clearer picture of where drivers are most likely to encounter damaged road surfaces. By analysing total pothole reports per 100km of road, we can see which local authorities are under the greatest pressure.
Aberdeen records the highest rate of pothole reports in the study, with 10,396 defects per 100km between 2021 and 2025.
While the city ranks first overall, reported defects fell between 2024 and 2025, indicating recent improvement following council investment in repair works.
Pothole formation is commonly linked to freeze–thaw cycles and surface fatigue caused by sustained traffic load, factors that can accelerate deterioration when road surfaces are already weakened. The average winter temperature in Aberdeen is 4.8℃, much lower than the UK average of 6.5℃, which increases the risk of freeze-thaw damage.
Cardiff ranks second overall, recording 6,611 potholes per 100km – placing the Welsh capital firmly among the UK’s pothole hotspots.
While annual figures fluctuated over the study period, Cardiff’s five-year rate remains significantly above many of the authorities analysed.
Road surface deterioration is typically influenced by a combination of factors, including traffic density, the presence of heavy vehicles, and the age of the underlying infrastructure. In larger urban areas such as Cardiff, even relatively small surface weaknesses can develop into reportable defects over time.
Nottingham had the third-highest amount of pothole reports, with 6,561 reported per 100km. Throughout the five-year study period, Nottingham council reported over 52,000 potholes.
The pothole issue has increased in Nottingham, with 2025 reports (16,516) more than double those in 2021 (6,729).
A spokesperson for Nottingham’s council stated that the reasons for the rapid rise were icier winter conditions, increased rainfall, and increased traffic.
Blackcircles tyre specialist James Harding (pictured) said:
“Potholes pose a significant threat to drivers and their vehicles, with more than one in five drivers spending at least £200 on vehicle repairs caused by these road defects. Therefore, reporting potholes to the local council can help get them repaired faster, saving other motorists from potential damage and hefty repair bills.
“Common vehicle damage caused by potholes can include damage to the suspension, tyre punctures, and damage to the vehicle’s coil springs. All of which can be extremely dangerous if left unfixed.
“Coil springs are pivotal in a vehicle’s stability, handling and braking ability. When damaged, these can also put other parts of the vehicle at risk, such as puncturing tyres, brakes and sensors. Driving on a punctured tyre is also extremely dangerous, with the risk of a tyre blow-out and loss of vehicle control increasing.
For the full report click HERE.
(PicturesL Blackcircles)
