Roads in crisis | National Audit Office release report highlighting the failing state of UK's roads

The National Audit Office (NAO) has released a damning report on the state of minor road networks, suggesting a worsening situation for the nation’s local lanes and an insufficient level of investment from the Department for Transport. 

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The report said: “Almost all journeys start and end on the local road network, which consists of 183,000 miles of road and represents 98% of the total road network. 

“Despite their importance, the condition of local roads is declining and the backlog to return them to a good state of repair is increasing.” 

Amid worsening roads, the report claims that the percentage of the highway being maintained in England is falling yearly, worsening the pile up of work needed. 

“Reducing the backlog of maintenance would allow local authorities to follow best practice principles focused on work that prevents poor road condition, leading to financial efficiencies and better value for money.” 

The primary reason for this deterioration is said to be a lack of understanding by the Department for Transport regarding the extent of the issue, calling out the “significant gaps in DfT’s information”. This is said to limit the agency’s ability to properly assess the need for repairs. 

According to the report, the latest DfT data describes 67% of local roads to be in good condition. However, this is challenged by data taken from the annual Asphalt Industry Alliance survey, which showed less than half of such roads meet a standard deemed ‘good’. 

The NAO suggests revisions need to be made in how data is collected and processed from local authorities, as well as greater care given to maximise value from the limited funds the DfT can provide for repairs.