Residents are urged to share their experiences with potholes in Somerset
Somerset: The pothole situation in the UK is getting pretty serious. It’s not just about bumpy rides; it’s costing drivers a fortune in repairs. The government is finally stepping up, putting more cash into fixing these roads, which is a relief for many.
So, where are the worst potholes in Somerset? We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and let’s get talking about it.
Potholes can really mess up your car. They can damage shock absorbers and even warp your wheels. It all starts when water freezes and thaws under the road, creating those annoying holes we all hate.
Fixing all the pothole-ridden roads in England and Wales is going to cost a whopping £16.3 billion. For the next financial year, the government is setting aside nearly £1.6 billion for local road maintenance, which is a nice bump from last year.
The AA reported that in 2024, the cost of repairing cars due to bad roads hit £579 million. That’s a big jump from the previous year, making it the highest amount ever spent on repairs related to potholes.
Even though there are fewer pothole incidents, the repair costs are still eating into drivers’ wallets.
On National Pothole Day, the AA urged local councils to stop with the quick fixes and focus on proper repairs. They want to see more permanent solutions to tackle this pothole crisis. The Department for Transport is pushing councils to use their funds wisely and to take preventive measures to stop potholes from forming in the first place.
There’s a catch, though. If councils can show they’re using the funds effectively, they’ll get to keep a quarter of the extra money. Adam Hug from the Local Government Association is calling for more consistent funding, saying it’s crucial for councils to plan better.
He made a good point: “If we had more long-term funding, councils could invest in better treatments to keep roads in good shape.”
Looking ahead, he mentioned that the upcoming budget review is a chance to give councils more stability, which could help make our roads tougher against bad weather and prevent those pesky potholes.
In a lighter moment, AA president Edmund King said, “There’s some light at the end of the pothole tunnel.” He believes the government is starting to listen and is moving towards more lasting solutions instead of just patching things up.
While pothole-related car incidents are down, the repair costs are still on the rise. Potholes remain a top concern for drivers, and there’s still a lot of work to do.
So, what do you think? Where are the worst roads for potholes in Somerset? Let’s chat about it!
