The Pothole Partnership says a rise in the number of pothole related incidents this summer, caused by extreme weather and neglected infrastructure, places all road users at heightened risk.
Figures from the AA show its breakdown patrols attended 50,091 pothole related incidents during July, compared to 49,081 during the same period in 2024.
According to the partnership, which includes the AA, as well as the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), IAM RoadSmart and Tyresafe, several factors are believed to be behind the worsening figures:
- Increased road trips on unfamiliar rural roads, which often receive lower priority for repairs.
- Higher temperatures making worn or damaged tyres more susceptible to failure.
- Heat stress worsening already weakened road surfaces.
The Pothole Partnership has voiced deep concern at the developments, warning all road users are at heightened risk—from drivers and cyclists to motorcyclists and pedestrians.
In January, the Government announced councils will receive £1.6 billion in funding to repair roads and fill potholes in 2025.
The investment – an increase of nearly 50% on local road maintenance funding from last year – is estimated to be enough to fix the equivalent of more than seven million extra potholes in 2025 to 2026.
Craig Carey-Clinch, NMC executive director, said: “Potholes, damaged surfaces and other related road conditions remain a serious hazard for motorcyclists and other two wheel users, with riders often citing this as a major road safety issue for them.
“Local authorities must act on recent investment announcements, including undertaking the requirement for road maintenance reporting which will unlock additional funding.”
Edmund King, AA president, said: “This summer’s heatwave has starkly exposed the fragility of Britain’s roads. While investment and repair campaigns have made a difference, the recent setback illustrates that much more must be done to create a safe and reliable road network for everyone.
“We urge the government and local authorities to redouble their efforts in tackling the pothole crisis, prioritising rural routes and frequently used cycling and motorcycling corridors.”
Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and standards, said: “Potholes are a menace but also a road safety hazard, particularly for those on two wheels.
“Extreme weather in both winter and summer can contribute to wearing down our road surfaces so maintenance needs to be year round.”
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