The announced allocation of funding is split between highways authorities across England, including: 

• over £327 million for local authorities in the North West, North East and Yorkshire and the Humber   
• over £372 million for local authorities in East Midlands and West Midlands   
• over £244 million for local authorities in the East of England  
• over £322 million for local authorities in the South East and London 
• over £300 million for local authorities in the South West 

The government has announced that it wants to ensure that authorities utilise funds responsibly, gather accurate data, and conduct preventative maintenance to address issues before they arise.  

A portion of this increase in funding (25%) for highways maintenance will be withheld from the local authorities until they provide evidence that they are fulfilling their commitments, in alignment with the built-in incentives of the funding. 

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander MP, said:   

"Potholes have plagued motorists for far too long, but today’s record investment will start to reverse a decade of decline on our country’s roads." 

"Millions will drive home for Christmas today, but too many will have to endure an obstacle course to reach their loved ones. Potholes damage cars and make pedestrians and cyclists less safe. We are investing £1.6 billion to fix up to 7 million more potholes next year."  

"This government is firmly on the side of drivers. Every area of England will get extra cash to tackle this problem once and for all. We have gone beyond our manifesto commitment to back motorists and help raise living standards in every part of the country." 

The government announcement is available to read here. 

Aligning to CIHT's agenda 

CIHT has previously called for the need in increased funding for local highway maintenance and is pleased to see that these calls are starting to be echoed in this announcement from the government. 

Similarly, the earlier publication of the NAO report “the condition and maintenance of local roads in England” was welcomed by CIHT, as it highlighted the need for proper maintenance of England’s highways network. 

CIHT's Manifesto makes it clear that sustainable transport has many benefits beyond immediate travel, including the positive impact on people’s health and reducing health and social care costs.  

As we look to repurpose our road network to support sustainable transport, we need to ensure that our footways, cycleways, and highways are properly maintained with adequate funding to help unlock wider societal benefits including improving health and wellbeing. 

CIHT looks forward to continuing to work with the Department for Transport and ensuring a delivery of a transport network that is fit for all our futures.