Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Accepted
Independent analysis and public perception confirm deterioration in local road conditions.
Conclusion
However, the Department also acknowledged that there has been a deterioration in the condition of local roads over recent years, based on independent reports and people’s perceptions in using the roads.15 The Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA) estimated that in 2023–24, less than half of roads (48%) were in a ‘good’ structural condition, the lowest proportion since this measurement was first included in the survey in 2015–16.16 The AA also reported that in 2023 its patrols attended more than 631,000 pothole related breakdowns, a five-year high, and that the scale of damage to vehicles by potholes has grown.17 As a reflection of this deterioration in 11 Qq 42-43 12 Qq 27-30 13 Q 46 14 Q 6; C&AG’s Report, Figure 5 15 Qq 6, 22 16 C&AG’s Report, Figure 6; LRE0009, written evidence submitted by the Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA) 17 C&AG’s Report, Figure 6; LRE0004, written evidence submitted by The AA 10 road conditions, an annual survey of road users by the National Highways & Transport Network, covering around 75% of local authorities, reported in 2023 that public satisfaction with road conditions was declining.18
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's observation on the deterioration of local roads and is taking steps to gain a greater understanding of network condition. This includes engaging with MHCLG to make new PAS 2161 reporting requirements mandatory and exploring greater data sharing with Mayoral Combined Authorities.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
2.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Autumn 2025 2.2 The department is considering what additional data it needs to collect to gain a greater understanding of the condition of the local highway network, and how this maps onto the structures that are being set up to allow further devolution. As this work progresses the department will, as is usual, engage with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local government to make the case for obtaining this data. 2.3 An example of this is that the department collaborated with local government to change the annual road condition reporting requirements, producing the new British Standard for Road Condition Monitoring (PAS 2161). The department has now begun engagement with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to change the single data list, to introduce the new reporting requirements against PAS 2161 as a mandatory requirement in England. 2.4 Another example of this is that the department is exploring how the aforementioned outcomes frameworks underpinning the integrated settlement can leverage greater data- sharing (as part of six-monthly reporting) between Mayoral Combined Authorities and the department on top of indicators with attached targets.