“We’ve already proactively engaged with the LGA on issues around preventative road maintenance, and we know this will help inform the advice they will present to local authorities,” says Maw. “While it makes sense to focus on the areas of the country facing challenges around their road maintenance strategies, we’d also like to emphasise that a wider cohort of councils could benefit from audits.”

“We know that failing to have a sound strategy and balanced maintenance approach now can have consequences decades down the line. Spiralling emergency repairs can leave local authorities trapped in a desperate situation, and it’s vital that local authorities have the tools to deliver balanced approaches to asset management including a greater focus on preventative maintenance.”

“We’d strongly encourage the LGA to take a firm approach when advocating for a larger proportion of spend being directed towards prevention, and we welcome engagement with the DfT, the LGA and local authorities while these audits are underway.”