The local council has set a minimum size threshold for potholes that warrant repair, as revealed by a recent analysis conducted by the RAC and Channel 4’s Dispatches.
Most councils, 54 in total, require potholes to be at least 4cm (1.6 inches) deep before taking action. However, several councils, including South Lanarkshire, Warwickshire, Torbay, Thurrock, Nottingham, and Torfaen, have a minimum depth requirement of 5cm (2 inches) for potholes to be considered for repair.
Thirteen councils, such as Buckinghamshire, Stockport, and Devon, specify that only potholes at least 30cm (11.8 inches) wide and 4cm (1.6 inches) deep will be addressed.
About 37% of councils follow a “risk-based approach” to prioritize pothole repairs, while 29% do not disclose their criteria online.
Rod Dennis, spokesperson for the RAC, expressed frustration over the varying criteria, noting that reporting a pothole does not guarantee its repair, especially if it doesn’t meet the council’s threshold.
Potholes can cause significant vehicle damage, including to shock absorbers, suspension springs, and wheels.
In October 2023, the Government announced £8.3 billion in additional funding over 11 years to address potholes in England. This funding was part of the Network North strategy, reallocating funds from the planned HS2 extension.
The estimated cost of repairing local roads with potholes in England and Wales stands at £16.3 billion.
Darren Rodwell, transport spokesperson for the Local Government Association, emphasized the need for long-term funding certainty to address road repairs effectively.
The Department for Transport highlighted its support for local authorities through increased funding and reporting requirements to ensure accountability.
The Dispatches program “The War On Britain’s Motorists” airs on Channel 4 on Thursday at 8 pm.
