9
Accepted
Departmental data suggests local road conditions have remained broadly stable since 2015-16.
Conclusion
The Department’s own data suggests that the condition of local roads has remained broadly stable. It reported that over the period 2015–16 to 2022– 23, the percentage of local roads rated ‘red’, which are roads that should be considered for maintenance, has been at 3 or 4% for A roads and 6% for B and C roads.14
Government Response Summary
The government agrees and is considering additional data collection for local road conditions. It has begun engaging with MHCLG to make new British Standard (PAS 2161) reporting a mandatory requirement in England and is exploring greater data-sharing with Mayoral Combined Authorities.
Government Response
Accepted
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
2.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Autumn 2025 2.2 The department is considering what additional data it needs to collect to gain a greater understanding of the condition of the local highway network, and how this maps onto the structures that are being set up to allow further devolution. As this work progresses the department will, as is usual, engage with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local government to make the case for obtaining this data. 2.3 An example of this is that the department collaborated with local government to change the annual road condition reporting requirements, producing the new British Standard for Road Condition Monitoring (PAS 2161). The department has now begun engagement with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to change the single data list, to introduce the new reporting requirements against PAS 2161 as a mandatory requirement in England. 2.4 Another example of this is that the department is exploring how the aforementioned outcomes frameworks underpinning the integrated settlement can leverage greater data-sharing (as part of six-monthly reporting) between Mayoral Combined Authorities and the department on top of indicators with attached targets.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
2nd Report - Condition and maintenance of Local Roads in England
17 Jan 2025
HC 349
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
1.5 yrs
Report published
17 Jan 2025