The Chancellor has increased pothole funding by an additional £200 million for the fiscal year 2023/2024, aiming to address the persistent challenge of potholes.
Fleetworld’s (Nadine Middleton) noted the 2023 Spring Budget has pledged an extra £200M funding for potholes, however, there needs to be a focus on effective repair products and procedures adopting best practice and reducing the necessity for repeat repairs which merely consume such budgets and resources toa stand still situation. Saint Gobain Adfors and UK Road Patch consider the use of American Road Patch to constitute best practice in the industry for the longevity of such repairs.
The additional funding of £200 million earmarked in the Spring Budget for 2023/2024 is anticipated to address the equivalent of up to four million extra potholes nationwide.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, speaking during the Spring Budget, announced the decision to boost the Potholes Fund. He stated, “The Spending Review allocated £500 million every year to the Potholes Fund, but today I have decided to increase that fund by a further £200 million next year to help local communities tackle this problem.” Hunt emphasized that the decision was prompted not only by a harsh winter but also by strong advocacy from MPs and local government for additional funding.
Nexus Vehicle Rental expressed encouragement at the pledge. Mike Palmer, Client Development Director, highlighted that potholes cause significant vehicle damage, impacting businesses financially. He remarked, “To see that this problem will be addressed is a positive result for businesses and fleets alike.”
However, RAC’s Head of Roads Policy, Nicholas Lyes, welcomed the extra £200 million but expressed skepticism about its transformative impact on the overall quality of local roads. He urged a substantial increase in funding for local road maintenance and improvement, emphasizing the need for proper resurfacing rather than temporary fixes.
The AA shared concerns about the delayed availability of funds, with Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy, stressing the urgency of immediate spending and significant long-term investment to address the state of local roads.
The Local Government Association called for ongoing and sustained commitments to road maintenance. Cllr David Renard, Transport Spokesperson for the LGA, highlighted the rising repair backlog and emphasized the necessity of consistent investment for widespread road improvement.
Kevin Pratt of Forbes Advisor acknowledged the funding as an official recognition of the deteriorating state of Britain’s roads but deemed it insufficient. He underscored the need for billions to address potholes adequately and prevent their recurrence, noting that driving in many areas resembles navigating a slalom with potential repair bills for drivers who encounter the worst road divots. Pratt urged more comprehensive measures to assist beleaguered drivers.
Source – Fleetworld
