Pothole recording and maintenance
Failures by highway inspectors to adequately record developing potholes and absence of paint markings, hindering timely repairs.
Source spread
Where this theme appears
This theme appears across 5 independent accountability sources, so the source mix matters as much as the headline total.
51 PFD reports
33 committee recs
5 NAO recs
1 IMB report
1174 LGO/SPSO decisions
Browse by source
Source-grouped records are useful for tracing where a concern came from. Large sections show the 50 strongest matches for that source; counts still show the full theme total.
Prevention of Future Deaths reports(51)— showing 50 strongest matches
William McCourt
Concerns: The coroner raised concerns regarding the absence of records for resident flood reports, an unverified assumption about land ownership, and a subsequent three-month period of inaction to address the flooding issue. There was no formal written communication to establish responsibility, leading to delays in resolving the hazard.
Response (North Yorkshire County Council): • Training has been provided to minimise human error in logging and recording enquiries. • Clearer direction is now given to staff to ensure better records are kept. • Further … (AI summary)
Responded
Gavin Roberts
Concerns: The coroner noted that the 60 mph speed restriction on a bend was unsafe and increased on approach to a bridge. Warning signs were identified as inadequate given the number of recorded incidents at this location.
Response (Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council): • The council carried out an investigation into collisions, traffic speed, and existing signage on Rollings Lane. • The council proposes to amend the speed limit on the specified section … (AI summary)
Responded
Sukbir Singh Rana & Mandip Singh
Concerns: The coroner raised concerns regarding the appropriateness of the 60 mph speed limit on a country lane with bends and limited lighting, noting the collision occurred on a bend with a theoretical maximum speed of 60 mph.
Overdue
Joanna Greensmith
Concerns: The road surface treatment did not adhere to adverse weather guidance, and the Route Steward had not reported running water across the carriageway at the location.
Response (South Wales Trunk Road Agent): • Presalting was instructed on 9 February 2014 at 17:00hts at a spread rate of 20g/sqm. • A Daily Operational Report on 10 February 2014 confirmed the treatment had been … (AI summary)
Responded
Tracey Rooke
Concerns: The coroner noted issues with the location, current state, and overall effectiveness of road signage in a particular area. Concerns were also raised regarding delays in implementing recommendations from a road safety assessment report, pending a coroner's PFD report.
Overdue
Nicholas Stocks
Concerns: Concerns included incomplete reporting by West Yorkshire Police of road traffic collision findings to Kirklees Council, a lack of clear responsibility for risk assessments at collision scenes, and inconsistencies in Kirklees Council's road inspection methods.
Response (West Yorkshire Police): • West Yorkshire Police confirmed that contact telephone numbers for Kirklees Council have been updated on their Force Communications system, enabling staff to speak directly to someone 24/7. • An … (AI summary)
Overdue
John Clarke
Concerns: Westminster City Council's inspections failed to identify a missing road sign and defective lighting for an existing sign over three years, partly because these assets were not fully recorded on their database. The inspection system and asset database were not sufficiently comprehensive to identify such defects.
Response: • The City Council confirmed its highway inspection system uses handheld units to raise works orders for defects, including for assets not in the inventory, and introduced a new report … (AI summary)
Responded
Jan Bodnar
Concerns: The coroner identified that overgrown plant growth on a central reservation dangerously restricted a driver's view at a junction, noting that regular maintenance is needed and similar risks may be present at other junctions on the road.
Response (Hertfordshire Council): • Hertfordshire Council cleared vegetation at the A505 End Farm junction and assessed similar junctions, identifying six requiring further clearance planned for July 2016. • The Council revised the remit … (AI summary)
Responded
Lee Nauman
Concerns: The coroner raises concerns about road conditions, including a broken and crumbling road edge with a pothole and leaf/soil debris, recommending a review and consideration of remedial action at the location.
Response (Bradford Metropolitan District Council): • An inspection of Lee Lane was conducted. • Pothole filling and patching works were carried out at various locations along the edge of the carriageway. • The Council's Cleansing … (AI summary)
Responded
Harold Davies
Concerns: Concerns include multiple fatalities at a road junction since 2010, with proposed safety work lacking funding approval or a start date. The coroner also notes concerns about the speed limit and warning signs on Station Road.
Response (National Highways): • National Highways cleared vegetation around the Station Road junction to improve visibility. • National Highways is seeking funding for a designed accident remedial scheme, escalating the request to senior … (AI summary)
Response (A One): • A-one+ made recommendations to Highways England regarding junction safety improvements. • A-one+ agreed to a meeting with Nottinghamshire Police, Nottinghamshire County Council, and Highways England. • A-one+ stated it … (AI summary)
Response (Nottinghamshire County Council): • The council stated it had not carried out investigations into the incidents, noting the Trunk Road is the responsibility of Highways England. • The council indicated it would co-operate … (AI summary)
Responded
Charles Pitcher
Concerns: The coroner noted that the Tamar Bridge barrier is easily traversed, leading to 11 recorded jumps in the past decade, and asked for a review of procedures to reduce future deaths. Concerns were also raised about the risk this poses to those on Wolseley Road and the absence of sufficient preventative measures compared to other significant bridges.
Overdue
Colin Wellings
Concerns: The coroner raised concerns that domestically manufactured machines from 1973, exempt from helmet and seatbelt requirements, pose an inherent risk. The report suggests considering legislation to bring this class of vehicle in line with other mechanically propelled vehicles.
Response (Department for Transport): • The Department for Transport proposes to ask for tricycle casualties on public roads to be recorded separately in police reported road casualty statistics (Stats 19). • This change is … (AI summary)
Responded
Vichal Tonpradit
Concerns: The coroner noted that a raised section of tarmac and confusing visual markings from a previous road layout on the A1(M) approaching Junction 6 northbound are potentially hazardous.
Response (National Highways): • The redundant solid white line road marking was covered over with bituminous material and is no longer visible. • A Smart Motorway scheme for the A1(M) Junction 6 to … (AI summary)
Responded
Philip Evanson
Concerns: The coroner noted that road markings on the A49 Tarporley Road, including a 'ghost' island, lane dividing lines, and right turn arrows, were significantly worn and indistinct.
Overdue
Cameron Chadwick
Concerns: The coroner identified a pothole in the carriageway, measured at 45mm deep, which exceeded Wigan Council's stated repair threshold of 40mm.
Response (Wigan Council): • Wigan Council stated that its officers measured the pothole at 36mm deep. • Wigan Council confirmed a temporary repair to the pothole was carried out on 6th July 2017. … (AI summary)
Responded
Katherine Vanloo
Concerns: Concerns were raised regarding a seven-month delay in repairing a category 2 pothole and the repair of the wrong pothole. The local authority lacked systems to track contractor work orders and conduct formal audits of completed repairs.
Response (Warwickshire County Council): • Highways Safety Inspectors now use handheld devices to upload defect details directly into the EXOR system, with a target to issue works orders within five days. • The Confirm … (AI summary)
Responded
Roger Hamer
Concerns: The coroner noted insufficient recording and monitoring of carriageway deterioration by highway inspectors. Additionally, concerns were raised that a new highway management procedure, by redefining the 40mm defect threshold to an 'investigation level', could increase risks, especially for cyclists.
Response (Bury Council): • Highway inspectors now routinely take photographs of defects, and repair crews also take photographs prior to and post repair. • The Council proposes to implement a formal procedure for … (AI summary)
Response (Department for Transport): • The Government provided £6 billion from 2015 to 2021 for local highway authorities to improve road conditions. • An additional £250 million was provided to address potholes. • The … (AI summary)
Responded
Darryl Souza
Concerns: Concerns were raised regarding compromised visibility at a road junction, despite existing signage, and the lack of a timeframe for planned improvements such as renewed signing and rumble strips. The report also highlighted a recommendation for installing "Stop" signs.
Response (Northamptonshire County Council): • The council stated it would implement a scheme including 'yellow backed' signs and refreshed lines. • A sequence of 'inaudible' rumble strips will be introduced in advance of the … (AI summary)
Responded
Darren Trewin
Concerns: A partially blocked drain in the central reservation caused water to cascade across the carriageway, contributing to a collision. The coroner also noted that extending the barrier on the nearside might have prevented a vehicle from leaving the road.
Response (Highway England): • Highways England provided temporary mitigation, installed an additional gully, and designated the location a flooding 'hotspot' for weekly inspections. • Further drainage improvements are planned, including an additional gully … (AI summary)
Responded
Mark Nicols
Concerns: The coroner noted that a path near an accident scene lacked clear signage and lighting for pedestrians, making its usability unclear. There was also an indication that the approach to such circumstances might not change in the future.
Response (Amey LG Limited): • Amey LG Limited stated it would issue a Health and Safety Bulletin reinforcing the need to comply with the Safety at Street Works and Road Works - A Code … (AI summary)
Responded
Paul Fairey
Concerns: The coroner noted poor visibility at the collision site due to a street lamp obscured by foliage, a faded "SLOW" road marking, and a speed cushion that can be straddled by vehicles and is breaking up.
Response (Lewisham): • The Council is arranging for tree foliage to be cut back, with work expected to be completed by the end of February 2019. • The northbound and southbound "SLOW" … (AI summary)
Responded
Nana Boateng
Concerns: The coroner noted that road markings and cat's eyes on a sharp left-hand bend were significantly worn away or non-existent. This condition could impact driver positional awareness and information regarding no-overtaking restrictions, raising a concern about highway safety.
Response (Wiltshire Council): • Funding has been allocated in current highways budgets to address the condition of road markings. • Arrangements have been made for the relaying of road markings on the specific … (AI summary)
Responded
Joshua Edwards
Concerns: The coroner raised concerns regarding ambulance delays caused by road closures for a public event, noting that crews were unclear on their authority to cross closures. The report also identified a need for event organisers to facilitate emergency vehicle access and for clearer signage at crossing points.
Response (Leeds City Council): • The Ambulance Service reviewed its response to events with road closures, implementing new education for Emergency Medical Directors and processes for call handling. • Processes were established for managing … (AI summary)
Responded
Jacqueline Valvona
Concerns: The coroner raises concerns about the lack of a safe pedestrian crossing on the A3054 at a point frequented by elderly residents with mobility issues. The existing crossing is inaccessible due to a steep incline, increasing pedestrian risk on the busy road.
Response (Isle of Wight Council): • Island Roads and the Police undertook a joint visit to assess highway layout deficiencies. • Island Roads conducted a review of the site and a feasibility study for a … (AI summary)
Response (Island Roads): • Island Roads reviewed the site and undertook a feasibility design for a controlled crossing, including a concept layout and costing. • A pedestrian survey was conducted to determine demand … (AI summary)
Responded
Freda Mason
Concerns: The local authority's reactive system for bus shelter maintenance relies on third-party complaints and lacks a proactive inspection process. The coroner suggests implementing a more proactive system, such as regular inspections, could prevent future deaths.
Response: • The council is tendering a contract for a service provider to implement a consistent bus shelter monitoring regime, including checks every six weeks. • Staff have been instructed to … (AI summary)
Overdue
Richard Phillips
Concerns: The coroner identified poor surface water drainage on a specific road stretch, noting that water bypassed gullies due to road camber and obscured drains. Concerns were also raised regarding the general maintenance of the road and its verges.
Response (Dorset Council): • Dorset Council resurfaced the B3091 section, adjusting the road camber to improve drainage efficiency. • The drainage system has been cleaned, and the council will continue to inspect the … (AI summary)
Responded
Ahmed Motala
Concerns: The coroner noted the very poor condition of the cycle lane, where defects require cyclists to swerve, raising concerns about future risks to cyclists' lives if it remains unrepaired.
Response (Gloucestershire County Council): • The Safety Inspection Team assessed the site using safety defect criteria. • Cole Avenue is included in the resurfacing programme for the financial year 2020/21. • The cycle lane … (AI summary)
Responded
Barbara Henderson
Concerns: The coroner noted that road inspections are conducted at speed, which resulted in a problem with a drain on the A5 not being identified.
Responded
Jason Imi
Concerns: The coroner identifies a lack of a footpath on the A329 near the Royal Berkshire Hotel and insufficient street lighting, requiring pedestrians to cross the unlit road. Visibility for motorists is further affected by a tree canopy and a dip in the road surface.
Response (The Highways Authority): • The Highways Authority stated it would monitor and review pedestrian activity in the area near the Royal Berkshire Hotel. • The Council indicated it would consider introducing additional street … (AI summary)
Responded
Costel Stancu
Concerns: The coroner noted that the lack of lighting on a motorway section was a contributory factor to collisions, posing an ongoing risk. Concerns were raised that the conversion to a 'smart motorway' may have increased risks, and the lack of lighting risk had not been reassessed.
Responded
Gary Sloan
Concerns: The coroner noted repeated fatal collisions at the same A690 location and suggested a review of safety road restriction systems, alongside a reassessment of drainage and surface water clearance.
Response (Sunderland City Council): • The council recently introduced an order banning U-turns along the A690. • The council will look to include a scheme in its 2020-2021 capital programme to mitigate the risk … (AI summary)
Responded
Ryan Taylor
Concerns: The coroner noted converging surface water on the A390 during heavy rainfall, likely contributing to the incident. Drainage improvements to diminish aquaplaning risks at this location have not been implemented, despite a prior similar incident.
Response (Cormac and Cornwall Council): • Signs will be erected on both approaches to warn of the possibility of surface water. • Existing gully grids on the Coliza Hill slip road will be replaced with … (AI summary)
Responded
Jennifer Dyer
Concerns: The coroner noted that the categorisation of potholes in East Sussex, particularly the definition for Cat 3 - LOW risk, requires significant review to prevent future avoidable deaths.
Response (East Sussex County Council): • The Council introduced an enhanced risk-based approach to safety inspections in May 2021, which allows inspectors to consider factors such as location and road usage when determining defect risk … (AI summary)
Responded
Charles Stringer
Concerns: The coroner noted Surrey County Council’s lack of reflection and documented changes to pothole management following Mr Stringer’s death. Concerns include insufficient action on informing inspectors of complaints, robust risk assessments, timely communication between departments, and prompt repairs.
Response (Surrey County Council): • Surrey County Council reprocured its Highways Term Maintenance contract, which included increasing the potential for larger scale pothole repairs and bringing the highways-inspector role in-house. • The council reviewed … (AI summary)
Responded
Adam Simms
Concerns: The coroner identified issues with the drainage gully inspection system, as blocked gullies were not identified in a recent check. A lack of explanation for significant standing water on the carriageway means the highway remains at risk of future water ingress.
Response (North Lincolnshire Council): • The Council undertook three wet weather safety inspections of the area in November 2022. • The Council stated it does not agree with the coroner's assessment that there was … (AI summary)
Responded
Mervyn Holbrook
Concerns: A worn-down kerb at a junction, not deemed for repair by the council, creates an unsafe entry point for vulnerable road users, who may mistake it for an official crossing and struggle to leave the carriageway.
Response (Birmingham City Council): • The height of the kerb at the junction of Livingstone Road was amended in January 2023, and processes for handling defect notifications have been reviewed. • A review of … (AI summary)
Responded
Ryan Taylor
Concerns: Heavy rainfall leads to surface water convergence on the A390 from Coliza Hill, increasing aquaplaning risks at the incident location. Feasible road drainage improvements, which could mitigate this risk, have not been implemented despite a prior similar incident.
Response (Cormac and Cornwall Council): • Significant improvements have been made to the drainage in the area of the accident. • Nearly 500m of combined kerb drainage has been installed, along with additional surface water … (AI summary)
Responded
Benjamin Teague
Concerns: The coroner noted the A5 road between Pottersbury and Paulesbury was in a very poor state with potholes, which deteriorated shortly after a repair following a road traffic collision.
Response (National Highways): • National Highways increased the safety inspection regime to twice weekly and imposed an advisory 40mph speed limit on the affected stretch. • Localised repair work was carried out, and … (AI summary)
Responded
Elsie Murphy
Concerns: A recurring puddle on a path, caused by a drain discharge, creates a slip hazard in wet weather, and the coroner noted that remedial work is needed to prevent further accidents.
Response (Cumberland Council): • Cumberland Council completed internal enquiries to determine the ownership of the land in question. • The Highways Department commenced work to install additional drainage in the area. • United … (AI summary)
Overdue
Jane Bennett
Concerns: The coroner raised concerns that mould in properties owned and maintained by Mansfield District Council, including Mrs. Bennett's, may pose a risk of future deaths. The report asks for inspections and action to minimise tenant exposure.
Response (Mansfield District Council): • The council inspected 41 homes in the area of concern, identified mould in 15, and initiated mould treatment in these properties. • The council has implemented a triangulated approach … (AI summary)
Responded
John Thomas
Concerns: The coroner identified issues with flooding and the general condition of the A539 highway, particularly near the Sun Trevor Public House, which were reportedly known to the Local Authority. These conditions pose a risk of future deaths.
Response (Denbigshire County Council): • The Council rectified a stone drainage feature and cleared debris east of the accident location, improving water flow. • The Council added the rectified drainage feature to its list … (AI summary)
Responded
Joanne Constable
Concerns: The coroner identified an apparent lack of systems for recording and tracking highway hazard reports, meaning there was no information on whether inspections occurred or if recommended work was completed. This absence of clear data on maintenance status creates risks across the county.
Response (Cambridgeshire County Council): • The County Council is implementing a new Highways Asset Management System to enhance the recording and tracking of highway defects and works. • A new public reporting system will … (AI summary)
Responded
Natalie Mountford
Concerns: Concerns were raised regarding a road section identified as an accident black spot, Dorset Council's lack of investigation into sources of water flowing onto roads, and Wessex Water's apparent absence of a robust system for logging and acting on direct reports of highway leaks.
Response (Wessex Water YTL Group): • Wessex Water stated it would log concerns raised by Local Authority Highways teams regarding water on highways potentially caused by its assets on its customer services system. • Wessex … (AI summary)
Response (Dorset Council): • The team will review the B3091 between Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury within three months to consider additional proportionate improvements. • Dorset Council will review its collision cluster site criterion … (AI summary)
Responded
Harry Colledge
Concerns: Highway operatives lack specific training to identify road defects hazardous to cyclists, and no policy review has occurred since a death. Concerns also exist regarding Island Lane's road surface and underlying geological features, which require adequate identification of hazardous defects during inspections.
Response (Lancashire County Council): • Lancashire County Council delivered a debrief presentation to operational staff, clarifying that Highway Operatives would not be used for "find and fix" defect identification. • Formal accredited training for … (AI summary)
Responded
John Bass
Concerns: The coroner noted a lack of clear guidance for highway inspectors regarding vegetation encroaching on pavements and raised concerns about the frequency of pavement inspections, especially on busy roads used by cyclists.
Response (Surrey County Council): • Surrey County Council reminded inspectors to consider the risk posed by pavement narrowing or obstruction, particularly to vulnerable users. • Inspectors were reminded to request maintenance works or raise … (AI summary)
Responded
Colin McCallum
Concerns: The coroner highlighted a risk of future deaths on a specific stretch of the A1307 road unless the risk of flooding and standing water is reassessed and managed. This follows multiple incidents of vehicles hitting water patches, leading to injury or death.
Response (Cambridge County Council): • The County Council instigated an immediate 40mph speed restriction and introduced local traffic management to close a lane when there is a risk of flooding. • A plan has … (AI summary)
Responded
Scott Punshon
Concerns: A site investigation identified issues with road markings, signage, and lighting, leading to recommendations for Durham County Council Technical Services to address these.
Response (Durham County Council): • Vegetation impacting the illumination of street lighting columns 333 and 334 was trimmed back. • Road markings in the vicinity of the accident were refreshed. • A speed limit … (AI summary)
Responded
Moira Farnell
Concerns: The coroner noted that the deceased's family had contacted the council about a hazardous broken pavement, but no action was taken to repair it prior to her death.
Response (Milton Keynes Council): • The Council confirmed it conducts regular inspections of its highway network in line with its Code of Practice for Highway Safety Inspections. • It stated that multiple inspections were … (AI summary)
Responded
David Walsh
Concerns: The coroner noted that road traffic collision data, reviewed annually, is not immediately reported to the Highways Department, potentially delaying timely safety improvements to highway conditions.
Response (Lincolnshire County Council Lincolnshire Police): • A new fatal notification process ensures that Police Fatal Reports are distributed to Highways Managers as soon as they are received by Lincolnshire County Council. • The Lincolnshire Road … (AI summary)
Responded
John Hickmott
Concerns: Several streetlights near the collision site were reported faulty but not repaired within council timescales, significantly reducing pedestrian visibility. There may also be a more fundamental technical problem causing repeated streetlight failures.
Response (Highways and Transportation Milton Keynes Council): • Contractual requirements for streetlight repair timeliness were reiterated to the contractor. • Milton Keynes City Council now undertakes sample check inspections of contractor repair works and updates all works … (AI summary)
Responded
Select committee recommendations(33)
#33 — Current highway infrastructure Code of Practice contains significant gaps, requiring urgent updates.
Recommendation: The Department told us that Ministers are considering a review of the Code of Practice as it considers there to be value in doing so, even though it will be major task to update the more than 260-page document. The …
Response attribution not verified
#32 — Department provides outdated guidance for local authorities on road network maintenance.
Recommendation: The Department is responsible for providing guidance to local authorities in England to help them run and maintain their road networks, but has not updated its guidance for several years.70 Such guidance has included good practice proactive maintenance to reduce …
Response attribution not verified
#23 — Short-term funding allocations may drive reactive maintenance despite single funding source perception.
Recommendation: The Department acknowledged that the succession of short-term funding allocations may have driven local authorities to be more reactive.44 However, the Department believes that local authorities treat the funding from the Department as a single source and are not concerned …
Response attribution not verified
#22 — Reactive pothole repairs prove inefficient and less cost-effective than proactive road maintenance.
Recommendation: However, potholes are just a symptom of poor road conditions and, as we heard, they are not necessarily being fixed properly or efficiently so money is just being wasted.41 For example, the AA told us that in its view too …
Response attribution not verified
#21 — Significant Department capital funding consistently allocated specifically towards pothole repairs.
Recommendation: Since 2020–21, the Department has provided local authorities with funding from the Potholes fund which, by the end of 2024–25, is expected to total £2.2 billion.38 Along with a further one off top up in 2023–24, specific pothole funding from …
Response attribution not verified
#16 — Many local authorities already collect more data, demonstrating willingness to report further.
Recommendation: The Department told us that it has to strike the balance between asking for more information and the increased burden of work for each local authority to provide that information, and that there are limits placed by the Ministry of …
Response attribution not verified
#15 — New data standard will not require wider information or increased monitoring of road network.
Recommendation: The Department told us that it will not be asking local authorities to provide a wider range of information as part of the new standard to avoid increasing the administrative burden on local authorities.25 The Department confirmed that it will …
Response attribution not verified
#14 — PAS 2161 data standard implementation will be voluntary until 2026-27 for local authorities.
Recommendation: The Department confirmed that it had recently released the standard in September 2024 so that local authorities can use it from 2025–26 on a voluntary basis. The Department told us that it will not make its usage mandatory until the …
Response attribution not verified
#13 — New data standard PAS 2161 aims to improve local road condition reporting quality.
Recommendation: The Department told us that it is looking to improve the quality of its data through the introduction of a new data standard — PAS 2161 — for local authorities to use in reporting the condition of local roads. The …
Response attribution not verified
#12 — Department's local road condition data is inadequate and lacks sufficient robustness.
Recommendation: We asked the Department why its data presented a different picture of local road conditions compared to the worsening conditions that independent analysis and user experience were showing. The Department acknowledged that its data is not good enough. For example, …
Response attribution not verified
#11 — Road maintenance backlog cost estimated to have significantly increased to over £15.6 billion.
Recommendation: The Department also expects the cost of dealing with the backlog in road maintenance to have increased since its last estimate in 2019 of between £7.6 billion and £11.7 billion. The Department told us that all the evidence suggested that …
Response attribution not verified
#10 — Independent analysis and public perception confirm deterioration in local road conditions.
Recommendation: 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, …
Response attribution not verified
#6 — Update and regularly revise local road guidance to reflect best practices and new challenges.
Recommendation: The Department has not provided enough support and guidance to local authorities to deal with current and future challenges in maintaining local roads. The Department is responsible for providing local authorities with guidance on the management and maintenance of local …
Response attribution not verified
#3 — Simplify local authority road funding, provide long-term certainty, and clarify maintenance monitoring.
Recommendation: The Department’s approach to funding is short-term and fragmented, hindering local authorities from planning more cost-effective work. In the last decade funding for local roads has become more complex, with the Department providing funding to local authorities via 12 different …
Response attribution not verified
#2 — Require the Department to obtain comprehensive data for understanding local road network condition.
Recommendation: The Department has insufficient knowledge of the condition of local roads. Industry estimates show that the condition of local roads across England is getting worse, which is also reflected in falling public satisfaction and higher levels of pothole related incidents. …
Response attribution not verified
#18 — FCDO's maintenance backlog was severely underestimated, necessitating external professionals for accurate assessment.
Recommendation: In November 2023, FCDO recognised that its £150 million estimate of its overseas estate maintenance backlog was likely to be an underestimate and commissioned professional surveyors to conduct a one-off exercise to identify the true backlog.47 FCDO ran a programme …
Response attribution not verified
#7 — Prioritise investment in maintaining, renewing, and enhancing existing Strategic Road Network assets
Recommendation: The existing Strategic Road Network is ageing and requires significant renewal work in places, while many users want to see better day-to-day maintenance and upkeep of the network. Future investment should be focused on renewing older parts of the SRN …
Response attribution not verified
#8 — Increase standard guarantee period for all excavations to five years and fine companies for repeat repairs.
Recommendation: The current guarantee period of two or three years for reinstatements after works, the latter being for deep excavations, is too short given that reinstatements should last more than ten years if carried out correctly. The Department should increase the …
Response attribution not verified
#8 — Ensure sufficient revenue and capital funding is allocated for Strategic Road Network maintenance
Recommendation: Providing the level of day-to-day running and upkeep that meets the needs of SRN users will require revenue funding alongside capital investment in more costly renewal and repair projects. The Government must, therefore, make sufficient provision for both revenue and …
Response attribution not verified
#18 — Encourage and support more local authorities to implement lane rental schemes without Secretary of State approval.
Recommendation: Lane rental schemes have worked well and can be a useful tool for authorities to manage disruption on their busiest stretches of roads. The Department for Transport should go further to encourage and support more local authorities to set up …
Response attribution not verified
#14 — Consult on amending urgent works permit definitions and introducing fines for permit misuse.
Recommendation: Immediate urgent and immediate emergency permits are an essential tool, but they should be used in situations when there is a genuine need or plan to urgently fix a problem. The Department for Transport should consult on how the use …
Response attribution not verified
#12 — Consider establishing a Street Works Commissioner or alternative independent dispute resolution function.
Recommendation: The Department for Transport should consider setting up a Street Works Commissioner in England to help ensure the consistent application and interpretation of legislation, provide an option for independent dispute resolution and monitor performance across the sector. This would provide …
Response attribution not verified
#7 — Two-year guarantee for street works reinstatements proves inadequate given local authority budget constraints.
Recommendation: Local authority budgets for road maintenance are stretched thin; they can ill afford the expense of making good reinstatements which are not up to scratch. We note the concern about increasing costs being reflected in utility bills, but there is …
Response attribution not verified
#3 — Ensure all road closure signage specifies exact location promptly for immediate permits.
Recommendation: All road closure signage should specify exactly where the road closure is. When immediate permits are issued, this should be done as soon as reasonably practicable. (Recommendation, Paragraph 23)
Response attribution not verified
#1 — Committee took evidence from the Department on local road condition and maintenance in England.
Recommendation: On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department for Transport (the Department) on the condition and maintenance of local roads in England.1
Response attribution not verified
#16 — Support development and promotion of apps using accurate open-source data on street works.
Recommendation: Up-to-date information on local street works is essential for the public, whether residents or road users. The Department should support the development and promotion of apps which make use of open source data, and ensure that the data is accurate, …
Response attribution not verified
#13 — Consult on amending permit scheme guidance to incentivise earlier completion of street works.
Recommendation: The Department for Transport should consult on amending guidance for permit schemes so that fees incentivise completion of works earlier than the period allowed for by a permit. (Recommendation, Paragraph 57)
Response attribution not verified
#11 — Existing street works dispute resolution process inefficient, leading to resource-intensive legal disagreements.
Recommendation: The current dispute resolution process does not seem to be working well. Disagreements relating to the interpretation of street works legislation can end up as legal disputes which are resource intensive for authorities and utility companies alike. (Conclusion, Paragraph 53)
Response attribution not verified
#5 — Set out specific changes to Safety Code for improved street works accessibility, incorporating DPTAC advice.
Recommendation: We ask the Department to set out specific changes that have been made to the new Safety Code of Practice to improve accessibility during street works and how advice from DPTAC has been incorporated. (Recommendation, Paragraph 28) 31 Managing the …
Response attribution not verified
#2 — Impose full overrun charges for street works leaving equipment/signs post-completion.
Recommendation: Leaving equipment or signs in place that imply to the public that street works are still ongoing when they have finished should attract a full overrun charge. (Recommendation, Paragraph 22)
Response attribution not verified
#9 — Departmental data suggests local road conditions have remained broadly stable since 2015-16.
Recommendation: The Department’s own data suggests that the condition of local roads has remained broadly stable. It reported that over the period 2015–16 to 2022– 23, the percentage of local roads rated ‘red’, which are roads that should be considered for …
Response attribution not verified
#6 — Department failed to investigate financial impacts of increasing guarantee period despite commitment.
Recommendation: It was disappointing to hear that, having said in 2019 that further investigation was needed into the financial impacts of increasing the guarantee period, the Department has not undertaken any further work on the issues. This is an inefficient use …
Response attribution not verified
#4 — Department lacks transparency on DPTAC's impact on street works accessibility safety code.
Recommendation: In our report about accessibility in transport, we asked for more transparency about the impact that the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) has on the Department’s decision-making. This is important for providing assurance that policy processes in respect of …
Response attribution not verified
NAO audit recommendations(5)
The condition and maintenance of local roads in England
To improve its support for local authorities and guidance on how to deliver effective and efficient highways maintenance, DfT should identify and fill gaps in guidance it provides to local authorities. This should include developing its understanding of where local …
Accepted
The condition and maintenance of local roads in England
To improve its approach to funding local road maintenance, DfT should work with HM Treasury to set out how it will provide longer-term funding certainty to local authorities that will help better support preventative road maintenance approaches.
Accepted
The condition and maintenance of local roads in England
To improve its approach to funding local road maintenance, DfT should review its approach to allocating capital funding to local authorities for local road maintenance to ensure its allocative effectiveness. DfT should review how it can make better use of …
Accepted
The condition and maintenance of local roads in England
To improve the accuracy and completeness of its understanding of the condition of the local road network in England, DfT should request information on the condition of other key road network assets, such as bridges, where local authorities are already …
Partially accepted
The condition and maintenance of local roads in England
To improve the accuracy and completeness of its understanding of the condition of the local road network in England, DfT should review its coverage requirements for local authorities on surface condition reporting, making use of the advances in data collection …
Accepted
LGO / SPSO decisions(1174)
21-018-404 — Hampshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr C’s complaint that his car was damaged by a pothole which the Council failed to repair. This is because it is reasonable for Mr C to pursue his compensation claim at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2022
22-000-809 — Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs B’s complaint that she tripped over a damaged paving stone which the Council had failed to repair. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs B to pursue her compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2022
22-000-805 — Nottinghamshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint that his car was damaged by a pothole which the Council failed to repair. This is because it is reasonable for Mr B to pursue his compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2022
23-020-977 — Salford City Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about pothole damage as this is ultimately a matter for the courts and the complaint is also made late.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2024
24-023-063 — London Borough of Enfield
Summary: We will not investigate Ms B’s complaint that her car was damaged by a pothole. This is because it is reasonable for Ms B to pursue her compensation claim at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2025
25-002-139 — Surrey County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs B’s complaint that her car was damaged due to the Council’s failure to repair a dangerous pothole. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs B to take the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2025
25-004-753 — North Northamptonshire Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint that his vehicle was damaged by a pothole which the Council had failed to repair. This is because it is reasonable for Mr B to pursue his compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jun 2025
25-004-629 — London Borough of Barnet
Summary: We will not investigate Ms X’s complaint that the Council wrongly decided her company was liable for pavement damage. This is because there is not enough evidence of fault in the Council’s decision-making to justify investigating. The courts are best placed to consider any continuing dispute over liability.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Sep 2025
201004424 — East Dunbartonshire Council
Mr C complained about the condition of the road outside his house and the council's failure to appropriately assess it and prioritise it for re-surfacing. He was also dissatisfied with the way the council dealt with his complaint. We did not uphold his complaints as our investigation found that the …
SPSO (Scottish Public Se…
Local Government
Not Upheld
Oct 2011
201104093 — The Moray Council
Mr C was concerned that the council decided not to fund repairs to his local private road (also known as an unadopted road). He complained that the predecessor council had, in 1988, entered into an agreement with residents to carry out surface repairs to these roads. He was of the …
SPSO (Scottish Public Se…
Local Government
Not Upheld
Jun 2012
201302706 — Glasgow City Council
Mr C complained that the council had unreasonably failed to maintain and repair a section of road near his home in line with their obligations. He also said that when he reported pot holes to the council, they failed to carry out repairs within the required timescales. The council said …
SPSO (Scottish Public Se…
Local Government
Not Upheld
Jul 2014
25-010-504 — Hampshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the Council failing to repair a defective manhole cover. There is not enough evidence of fault in the way the Council has assessed the matter, we cannot achieve the outcome the complainant is seeking, and it is reasonable to expect him to …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Dec 2025
25-017-135 — North Lincolnshire Council
We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint about the Council not maintaining the road and pavement near to where he lives. This is because it is reasonable for Mr X to pursue this matter at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Feb 2026
25-025-583 — Devon County Council
on the lessons that can be learnt from our complaints about end of life care given in care homes and in the home.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2026
25-014-023 — London Borough of Barnet
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway maintenance charges because the court is better placed to consider the complaint, and it is reasonable to expect Mrs Y to use her right to go to court about the matter.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2026
PSOW-202308170 — Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
Mrs B complained that Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council failed to provide her with a copy of its stage two response. The Ombudsman found that there had been a failure by the Council to share the outcome of the stage two with the complainant, she said this caused frustration and …
PSOW (Public Services Om…
Local Government
Feb 2024
PSOW-202309208 — Powys County Council
Mr L complained about works that Powys County Council undertook to the road outside his home following the removal of a flood defence wall on private property. Mr L said the works had not resolved the problem of water running down the road and his home. He said that he …
PSOW (Public Services Om…
Local Government
Mar 2024
21-013-556 — Manchester City Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the condition of a pavement. This is because the complaint late. Also, there is not enough evidence of fault by the Council, and the complainant has a remedy in court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2022
21-013-515 — East Sussex County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint about disrepair to the public highway. This is because it would be reasonable for Mr X to serve notice on the Council and take the matter to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2022
21-014-982 — London Borough of Enfield
Summary: We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint that his car was damaged due to the Council’s failure to repair a pothole. This is because it is reasonable for Mr B to pursue his compensation claim at court, which is in the best position to decide the matter.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2022
21-014-750 — North Yorkshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs X’s complaint that the Council has not accepted liability for her personal injury and property damage after she tripped on an open inspection cover on the highway. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs X to take the Council to court, which is …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jan 2022
21-014-401 — Leicestershire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway maintenance because there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating and there is another body better placed to consider the complaint.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Feb 2022
21-015-797 — Bristol City Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint about damage to his car caused by a pothole. This is because this is a complaint about negligence which is a legal matter for the courts to consider and decide should the Council deny liability on his claim.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Feb 2022
21-017-217 — Gloucestershire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs B’s complaint that her car was damaged due to the Council’s failure to repair a pothole. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs B to pursue her compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2022
21-016-942 — Manchester City Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about emergency repair work carried out by the Council, which the complainant says caused damage to his property. This is because it would be reasonable for the complainant to seek a remedy through the courts if he believes the Council are liable for …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2022
21-019-022 — Cumbria County Council
Summary: We will not exercise discretion to investigate this complaint about damage caused to Ms X’s property arising from the Council’s failure to clear overgrown gullys on the public highway. This is because it is reasonable to expect Ms X to go to court to determine any liability owed by …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2022
22-000-272 — Devon County Council
Summary: We will not exercise discretion to investigate this complaint about damage caused to Mrs X’s car arising from the Council’s failure to repair a pothole on the public highway. This is because it is reasonable to expect Mrs X to go to court to determine any liability owed by …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2022
22-000-446 — Cumbria County Council
Summary: We cannot investigate Ms B’s complaint that her car was damaged due to the Council’s failure to maintain a road. This is because Ms B took the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2022
22-000-063 — Essex County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the Council’s decision on the priority to give Mr X’s road for repairs. This is because we are unlikely to find evidence of fault by the Council.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-001-878 — Shropshire Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs B’s complaint that the Council has damaged her boundary wall. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs B to pursue her claim against the Council at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-001-794 — Medway Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs X’s complaint the Council is failing to maintain or repair a main road causing danger to road users. Mrs X has an alternative remedy at court which it is reasonable for her to use.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-001-786 — Hampshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about disruption during roadworks because it is late with no good reason to investigate it now.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-001-769 — Cheshire West & Chester Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint that the Council has the wrong highway repair priorities, has failed to repair two major roads which places drivers at risk, and wastes public money. Mr X has a legal remedy at court which it is reasonable for him to use if …
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-002-461 — Staffordshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about damage caused to the complainant’s car after hitting a pothole. This is because it is not unreasonable to expect him to take the matter to court to determine any liability owed by the Council.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
May 2022
22-002-368 — Staffordshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about damage from a pothole in the road. This is because the complaint is better dealt with by insurers and the court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jun 2022
22-003-127 — Suffolk County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint that the Council has failed to repair a defective section of road outside his home. This is because it is reasonable for Mr B to use the remedies available to him at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jun 2022
22-002-888 — Surrey County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway repairs. This is because Miss Y’s insurer or the court is better placed to deal with her complaint.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jun 2022
22-003-311 — Kent County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway repair and maintenance. This is because there is not enough evidence of fault or significant enough injustice to justify our investigation.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jun 2022
22-004-505 — Portsmouth City Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about financial loss incurred by the complainant after his car was damaged by a tree on Council land. This is because it is reasonable for the complainant to take his claim to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Jul 2022
22-006-016 — London Borough of Barnet
Summary: We cannot investigate any aspect of this complaint about the Council failing to adhere to a court judgement requiring it to compensate the complainant. This is because we have no remit to intervene.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Aug 2022
22-005-649 — Lincolnshire County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway maintenance. This is because it is unlikely we would find fault and it is reasonable to expect Mr Y to use the remedies available to him at court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Aug 2022
22-007-024 — Devon County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr C’s complaint that the Council is failing to maintain the road where he lives. This is because it is reasonable for Mr C to apply to court for an order requiring the Council to repair the road.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Aug 2022
22-007-403 — Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint that his car was damaged due to the Council’s failure to maintain roads it is responsible for. This is because it is reasonable for Mr B to pursue his compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Sep 2022
22-009-004 — Cumbria County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint that his car was damaged when it hit a pothole, because it lies outside our jurisdiction. This is because it is a complaint about negligence which is a legal matter for the courts to consider and decide.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Oct 2022
23-017-984 — Central Bedfordshire Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about work carried out to the road where the complainant lives. We cannot decide whether the Council is liable for damage to his property or personal injury, these are matters for insurers or the courts. Nor can we require the Council to impose …
LGO (Local Government & …
Planning
Mar 2024
23-019-382 — Suffolk County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway repair and maintenance because the courts are better placed to consider the complaint.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2024
23-020-778 — Devon County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint about the state of local roads or that his car was damaged by a pothole. This is because it is reasonable for Mr X to apply for an order to court and take his claim for damages to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Mar 2024
24-000-209 — West Sussex County Council
Summary: We will not investigate Mrs B’s complaint that her car was damaged after hitting a pothole which the Council had failed to repair. This is because it is reasonable for Mrs B to pursue her compensation claim by taking the Council to court.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2024
23-019-967 — Buckinghamshire Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway maintenance because there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2024
23-019-952 — Essex County Council
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about highway maintenance because the courts and insurers are better placed to deal with any damage to Dr Y’s vehicle and there is not enough evidence of fault in the Council’s management of highway maintenance to justify investigation.
LGO (Local Government & …
Transport And Highways
Apr 2024