A survey of 122 local authority areas in England and Wales has revealed that Trafford has the 10th highest figure for potholes reported to a council per mile. The survey reveals that in 2022, Trafford received 3,361 reports of potholes on its 500 square miles of roads which equated to 7.32 potholes per mile.
By contrast, neighbouring Warrington Council received 526 reports of potholes on its 623 square miles of roads which equates to 0.84 potholes per mile.
Potholes are a common sight on many roads and pavements and are caused when the surface of the road or pavement has worn away and a hollow has formed. A pothole can form quickly and be a hazard to vehicle drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
Commenting on the survey results, Stuart Donnelly, one of the Conservative candidates in the 2023 local elections for Lostock and Barton ward said “From my own experience and from what residents tell me when knocking on doors, it’s not too surprising that Trafford Council is so high up the pothole league of shame. Trafford’s roads and pavements seem to be in worse state than ever and that is despite the Conservative Government awarding councils more than £5.5 billion between 2020 and 2025 for highways maintenance with an extra £200m to help fix potholes announced in March's budget. The Government has also introduced new regulations regarding road surface conditions after utility street works.
“The Trafford Labour administration have got themselves into a bit of a hole by how Trafford compares to other councils for reported potholes. Labour should end their neglect of our roads and pavements and start to be a bit more driven in prioritising longer-lasting solutions to Trafford's pothole pain.
"I'd be interested to hear resident's views on the condition of Trafford's roads and pavements and residents can share their views with me at www.stretfordandurmstonconservatives.uk/campaigns/roads-and-pavements-s…"