ADEPT Response to Government Pothole Ratings Map

Angela Jones, President of ADEPT said: "We acknowledge the government's commitment to transparency and long-term investment in local roads, however the newly published ratings raise significant questions about the assessment methodology. "We would like clarity on how ratings have been calculated, including how different data collection approaches and funding allocation timings have been factored into assessments.

We need to ensure the ratings fairly reflect genuine progress across different local authority areas - in the future, we believe local authorities should have the opportunity to verify data and clarify any factual questions before ratings are published, to ensure accuracy and build confidence in the system. "While the GBP7.3 billion investment announced in the budget last year represents a step forward, it follows decades of underfunding that left local roads in a fragile state - it is just the start of what is needed to tackle the GBP17bn repair backlog that continues to grow. Road condition isn't simply a measure of council performance - it reflects historic funding levels, traffic volumes, network size and weather impacts.

"For many years, councils have been calling for multi-year funding certainty, so they can plan effectively and prioritise long term, preventative maintenance over costly reactive repairs. "Together, the funding announcements made last year represent a step in the right direction, meaning that we can invest more in the treatments that stop potholes forming in the first place. However, after decades of underinvestment, it will take time before we see the rate of deterioration slow and meaningful improvements in network condition.

"We welcome the extension of the ADEPT Live Labs 2 programme for another year - Year 4 will focus on sharing best practice, ensuring that the insights and innovations developed through the programme are communicated across the sector to accelerate the adoption of new solutions to establish new ways of working. This kind of practical support, alongside funding, is exactly what is needed to transform how we maintain our roads. The UK-wide GBP30 million programme, funded by the Department for Transport, aims to decarbonise the local highways infrastructure network. 

"With sustained investment and the right support, councils can focus on improving road conditions while managing the ongoing challenges of heavier vehicles, severe weather and third-party works that all impact our roads."

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