ALARM Survey 2026 shows the increasing value of preventative maintenance
A record ยฃ18.62 billion repair backlog and resurfacing cycles stretching to once every 97 years โ the latest ALARM Survey makes clear that the recent uplift in funding is not yet showing through. The REA argues the answer lies in shifting decisively toward preventative treatments.
3ย min read
The newly published ALARM 2026 Survey, put together by the Asphalt Industry Alliance, paints a familiar picture:
ยฃ18.62bn
97 yrs
1.9m
~50%
While we welcome the recent uplift in highway maintenance funding, and the cautious optimism expressed by local authority officers, the message from this yearโs report is that the increase in maintenance funding is not yet showing strong results.
This means that government, local authorities and industry need to do more, and faster, in order to reverse the decline in the condition of our roads.
At the REA, we believe the solution lies in frontโloaded, longโterm investment that empowers authorities to shift decisively toward proactive, preventative treatments, which is already happening thanks for encouragement from the Department for Transport (DfT)
We know that surface dressing and encapsulation offer:
- Lower carbon footprints across the assetโs life
- Better long-term value for the public purse
- Faster delivery and reduced disruption
- Greater resilience against severe weather
These treatments extend the life of existing assets and reduce the need for costly, carbonโintensive reconstruction, which is exactly the kind of strategic approach the ALARM data calls for.
The Governmentโs commitment to increased funding is a vital step. Now we must ensure it is delivered early, consistently, and with a clear focus on long-term asset maintenance.
The REA stands ready to support local authorities and industry partners in delivering a more resilient, sustainable, and costโeffective road network for all.
The REA stands ready to support local authorities and industry partners in delivering a more resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective road network for all.
You can see our ongoing local elections campaign over on our campaigns page.
You can read the full ALARM report here: ALARM survey