The Government has launched a new public map designed to name and shame local authorities that are failing to tackle the nation's pothole crisis, with the data revealing that Labour-run councils are among the worst offenders.
Traffic Light System Exposes Repair Failures
The initiative uses a traffic light rating system to grade town halls on the condition of their roads and on how effectively they are spending maintenance funding. The map is a significant embarrassment for the Labour Party, as it ranks several of its councils in the most serious 'red' category for pothole repairs.
Greenwich Council, which is home to Prime Minister's closest parliamentary aide Abena Oppong-Asare and local government minister Matthew Pennycook, is highlighted as one of the worst performers. Other Labour authorities, including Waltham Forest, Bolton, and Cumberland, also find themselves in the red zone for repairs.
In contrast, several Conservative-controlled councils such as Essex and Hillingdon, alongside Reform-run Worcestershire, have been given the top 'green' rating by ministers for their handling of road maintenance.
Timing Adds to Political Pressure Ahead of Elections
The publication of the map is particularly awkward for Labour with crunch local elections looming in May, which are widely anticipated to be a flashpoint for potential leadership challenges to Keir Starmer. Pollsters predict a difficult night for Labour councils, and this latest revelation is seen as a significant own goal for what is regarded as a deeply unpopular government.
The issue was thrown into sharp relief only days ago when a single large pothole on a slip-road off the M3 in Hampshire burst the tyres of at least 14 cars, causing a major traffic snarl-up. Emergency repairs on the A303 near Popham required a lane closure on Thursday evening, leaving damaged vehicles stranded on the hard shoulder.
Tory transport spokesman Richard Holden MP said: ‘It is refreshing to have Labour ministers laying bare just how badly Labour-run councils handle basic road repairs. If you live in Bolton, Waltham Forest, Greenwich or any other Labour council up for election, this map is a warning label.’
Incentives Aimed at Fixing the 'Pothole Plague'
The new system aims to incentivise councils to actually spend the £7.3 billion they have been allocated for repairs on the 'pothole plague' blighting Britain. Currently, funding for roadworks is not ring-fenced, meaning councils can spend the money on other priorities.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated: ‘For too long drivers have paid the price because our roads were left to deteriorate.’ The initiative has been welcomed by motoring groups, with AA president Edmund King supporting the move to 'hold local highways authorities to account'.
The Mail on Sunday understands that ministers are now considering further incentives, such as delaying fund allocations until councils meet specific repair targets, to ensure the money directly tackles the crumbling road network.
