UK drivers could face an estimated 1.2-1.5 million new potholes on British roads this winter, with up to 500,000 likely to remain unrepaired by spring, according to new analysis of highway maintenance transparency reports from 62 local authorities by Triopsis, the specialist highways AI scheduling software provider.
The analysis reveals that despite the best efforts of local authorities and increased budgets, road deterioration is outpacing repairs across much of the UK.
High-risk areas such as West Sussex, York, and Stockport could experience pothole formation rates 40-50% above the national average, significantly increasing the likelihood of vehicle damage for motorists.
Analysis of the local authority reports also reveals a £16.8 billion estimated UK road repair backlog. However, with local authorities typically only able to repair 60-70% of potholes that form during winter months, the backlog will continue to grow into 2026.
Andy Hutt, CEO of Triopsis (pictured), said, “Local authorities are working incredibly hard, often with limited resources, however our analysis shows that simply allocating more funding isn’t the whole solution – we need smarter approaches to tackle this growing problem. Competition and open technology standards are essential for the sector to adopt innovations that can help address these challenges.”
Triopsis also found encouraging innovation across the sector, with several councils implementing creative and effective solutions to maximise limited resources.
Stockton-on-Tees has pioneered rubber-enhanced asphalt showing 80% carbon reduction while improving durability, and Lancashire County Council has successfully implemented recycled plastics for pothole repairs, for example.
These material innovations demonstrate how councils are actively seeking sustainable and cost-effective approaches to address road maintenance challenges.
AI technology adoption has been emerging as a key solution for road maintenance teams, with Triopsis also finding that local authorities utilising digital workflow optimisation tools achieve up to 37% more completed repairs within the same resource constraints.
These tools enable better prioritisation of repairs, more efficient routing of maintenance crews, and improved resource allocation – all contributing to addressing more defects before winter weather intensifies deterioration cycles.
(Pic: Triopsis)
