Reform UK is facing criticism for its handling of road maintenance issues, with recent analysis revealing that Councils led by the party have been the least effective in addressing potholes. The government has introduced a new traffic light system to address potholes, highlighting that a significant number of Local Highway Authorities under Reform leadership have received a ‘Red’ rating, indicating poor performance. The Department for Transport has implemented a mapping tool to assess road conditions and the efficiency of spending on road maintenance.
Among the Reform Councils, including Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and West Northamptonshire, a notable proportion have been rated ‘Red,’ signaling inadequate efforts in pothole repairs. Similarly, Conservative Councils have also been found lacking in dealing with pothole issues, with nearly 20% of their Councils receiving a ‘Red’ rating.
In response to the findings, Anna Turley MP, Chair of the Labour Party, criticized Reform Councils for their poor performance in addressing pothole problems. She emphasized the Labour Party’s commitment to investing in road maintenance to improve conditions for drivers.
The data collection period for the analysis was between March 2025 and June 2025, predating Reform’s assumption of control in local authorities. Some of the authorities classified as ‘Red’ include Cumberland, Cumbria; Bolton, Greater Manchester; Leicestershire; Suffolk; and Kensington and Chelsea in west London. The Department for Transport has announced a support program for ‘Red’ authorities to enhance their practices with a dedicated budget.
On the other hand, authorities like Essex, Wiltshire, Coventry, Leeds, and Darlington have been classified as ‘Green,’ indicating better road maintenance practices. The government has pledged significant funding for local road maintenance over the coming years to improve road conditions and reduce repair costs for drivers.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the government’s commitment to investing in road infrastructure to benefit drivers and communities. She emphasized the importance of long-term funding certainty for local highway authorities to address road maintenance issues effectively.
A spokesperson for Reform UK defended their efforts in addressing road maintenance challenges, citing improvements made in areas like Derbyshire. The spokesperson emphasized the commitment of Reform Councils to address the backlog of potholes and improve road conditions, highlighting a shift from past practices under Conservative and Labour administrations.