'Golden opportunity' to catch up on much-needed road repairs missed - RAC reacts to new road condition data

Image: RAC

Reacting to government data released on the condition of roads in England over the 12 months to March 2021, RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said:

“Given that most roads looked after by councils are minor ones, it’s hugely concerning – and rather disappointing – that an increasing proportion are ear-marked for maintenance, particularly with so many already in need of repair. What’s more, unclassified roads in more rural areas tend to have poor safety records compared to their major road counterparts, so crumbling infrastructure only adds to the risks faced by both drivers and cyclists.

“We had hoped that the fact so few people were using the roads last year because of the pandemic would have given councils a golden opportunity to catch up on much-needed road repairs. Sadly, this data appears to show there’s still a huge amount to be done.

“Given the vast sums drivers pay in taxes every year, it’s only reasonable for them to expect all roads to be in a good condition.”

Press office team

Press office team

For journalist enquiries only

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
Pothole pain persists: Vehicle breakdowns where poor roads were to blame rose 15% last year
RAC patrols attended an average of 71 breakdowns a day because of potholed roads, up from 62 in 2024
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
RAC wins Moneyfacts ‘Car Insurance Provider of Year’ for fifth year in a row
RAC Insurance has won ‘Car Insurance Provider of the Year’ for the fifth consecutive time at the prestigious Moneyfactscompare.co.uk Awards 2026.
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Too bright to ignore: More than half of drivers affected by dazzling headlights say the problem is worse this winter than last
Quarter of drivers with adaptive driving beam systems think they increase the risk of dazzle to other road users
media.rac.co.uk

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic British motoring organisation and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted brands, providing complete peace of mind to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric‑ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

Contact

media.rac.co.uk