The state of our roads is a national disgrace. This is the stark reality painted by the Asphalt Industry Alliance's (AIA) annual ALARM survey, which reveals a staggering £18.6 billion repair bill for local roads across England and Wales. This figure represents a 50% increase from a decade ago, highlighting the dire state of our infrastructure and the urgent need for action.
The survey's findings are damning. Only 51% of local roads are deemed good condition, with a shocking 32,500 miles of roads having less than five years of life left. This is despite a 17% increase in highway maintenance funding to an average of £30.5 million per council in 2025-26. It's a case of more money, more problems, as drivers continue to endure a crumbling network.
The situation is so dire that workers are being attacked and abused. David Giles, chair of the AIA, reports that workers are being shouted at, spat at, and even physically assaulted. This is a disturbing trend that highlights the frustration and anger of drivers, who are left with no choice but to resort to such extreme measures.
The ALARM survey also reveals a shocking lack of resurfacing. Roads are being resurfaced far less often than recommended, with an average of only once every 97 years. This is a recipe for disaster, as it means that potholes are not being addressed in a timely manner, leading to a vicious cycle of patch and repair.
The consequences of this underinvestment are far-reaching. Councils are struggling to keep up with the repair backlog, with an estimated funding gap of £1.37 billion. This means that roads are getting worse, not better, and the cost of annual maintenance is rising. It's a vicious cycle that needs to be broken.
The government has pledged £1.6 billion for local road maintenance in England this financial year, a welcome increase of £500 million. However, the AIA urges ministers to bring forward funding to allow for more preventative work, stopping potholes from forming in the first place. This is a wise investment that could save money in the long run, but it will take time for the public to notice the impact.
The situation is a national scandal, with safety concerns growing. Poor roads are putting lives at risk, and drivers are being forced to swerve around potholes. It's a crisis that demands immediate action, and the government must act now to address this national disgrace.
