Condition of Roads Cheshire 2025-07-14

Opened the debate

I am grateful to have secured today’s Adjournment debate on an issue that affects communities across the country: the condition of our roads. The Public Accounts Committee recently published a report showing widespread issues with road maintenance, urging local authorities to take a more strategic and proactive approach rather than focusing on short-term repairs. In Cheshire, residents face significant challenges due to reactive repair strategies by local councils, leading to an increasing national repair backlog estimated at over £15 billion today. This debate aims to highlight the need for better funding certainty and a simplified allocation process for road maintenance, emphasising the importance of strategic leadership at both the central and local government levels.

Government Response

The Government recognise the importance of maintaining our roads in good condition. We have committed significant funding towards road repairs and maintenance across England, including £650 million allocated specifically to local authorities to address potholes and other highway issues. The Department for Transport works closely with local authorities to ensure that this funding is used effectively and efficiently. Local authorities are encouraged to adopt a more strategic approach to road repair and maintenance, focusing on long-term solutions rather than reactive measures. The Government will continue to support initiatives aimed at improving the condition of roads and addressing residents' concerns through ongoing investment in infrastructure. The hon. Member for Chester South and Eddisbury is congratulated on highlighting the condition of roads in Cheshire, acknowledging her efforts to raise her constituents’ concerns. The Minister acknowledges the plague of potholes and poor road conditions faced by everyone across England and agrees that this must stop. He confirms £500 million extra funding provided for highway maintenance, bringing total spending to nearly £1.6 billion. This includes an additional £5.54 million for Cheshire East council and £4 million for Cheshire West and Chester council on top of baseline funding. The Minister also mentions that 25% of this year’s funding uplift is contingent on meeting the requirements announced by the Secretary of State, ensuring transparency in how investment will be spent. Both Cheshire highway authorities have published reports regarding their road condition and plans for additional funding use. Furthermore, he announces £24 billion capital funding between 2026-27 to 2029-30 for maintaining and improving motorways and local roads across the country, including active travel schemes in Cheshire West and Chester and Cheshire East. The Minister also confirms a £48 million grant towards Cheshire East council’s Middlewich eastern bypass scheme aimed at tackling congestion and safety concerns. In conclusion, the Government is committed to supporting local highway authorities to improve and maintain roads for all users through funding, transparency, and support.