“Given the sharp rise in concern about fuel prices this year, the fact local road maintenance remains such a prominent issue is a reflection of just how deep-seated this problem has become.”
That’s the verdict of the RAC to the findings of its 2022 Report on Motoring.
The report surveyed motorists on a variety of issues. It found that 60% believe the condition of local roads they use regularly is worse than a year ago.
Conversely, only 4% feel they have improved.
Issues with surface quality are the main reason drivers say the state of their local roads has deteriorated (98%). Meanwhile, 86% of respondents say they have to steer to avoid potholes on several occasions. This rises to 90% among those who live in rural locations.
But potholes are not the only problem. Some 63% of respondents say they have noticed faded road markings, while 42% report worsened signage visibility. More than a third (35%) complained about the amount of litter by the roadside and 30% cited lack of grass and foliage maintenance as a problem.
Nicholas Lyes, RAC head of roads policy, said: “Given the sharp rise in concern about fuel prices this year, the fact local road maintenance remains such a prominent issue is a reflection of just how deep-seated this problem has become.
“Unfortunately, we do still have a widespread funding shortfall meaning that many councils can’t afford to maintain and improve roads as they would like to.
“The RAC continues to believe the local road network needs some form of ringfenced funding to allow councils to maintain their roads properly and regularly.”
Some 38% also think the condition of motorways and dual carriageways has worsened over the last year.
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