UK’s pothole disaster as councils depart hundreds unfixed for over a decade

As many as 79 councils have potholes first reported in 2007 still marked as unresolved, according to new analysis by Tempcover – with some local authorities taking years to fix the issue

UK drivers are grappling with potholes that have been left unattended for years, as councils ignore thousands of complaints. Nearly 80 councils still have unresolved potholes first reported as far back as 2007, according to fresh analysis by Tempcover.

Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester are among the worst areas for the oldest-reported potholes, where drivers have been dodging the same road hazards for 18 years. The study, based on data from FixMyStreet.com, reveals that 69 councils each have over 1,000 potholes that have been left unrepaired, with Cheshire East Council leading the pack with a shocking 17,191 open reports.

Hertfordshire County Council is hot on their heels with 12,650 unresolved potholes, while Essex County Council comes in third with 11,190 since Wednesday 20 June 2007.

Buckinghamshire Council, Glasgow City Council, Kent County Council, West Sussex County Council, Birmingham City Council, and Warwickshire County Council also feature in the top ten.

One of the UK’s most notorious potholes, situated in Bottom o’ th’ Moor near Bolton, has been dodging repair since April 6, 2007. Concerned citizens on FixMyStreet.com are sounding the alarm bells over dangers to motorcyclists and other road users as a result of such neglect.

As the pothole epidemic shows no sign of retreat, the temporary car insurance gurus at Tempcover have dished out some crucial advice for drivers to avoid vehicle damage:

• Keep your eyes peeled and stay alert to any road damage and be wary of puddles that could be hiding treacherous potholes.
• Maintain your distance and ensure there’s a three-second gap between you and the car ahead.
• Ease up on the speed and go slowly, particularly during foul weather.
• Check your tyre pressure as this can cushion the blow from an unpleasant pothole encounter.
• Record the ruin: In case your ride takes a hit from a pothole, snap pics and collect proof for any claims of compensation.

Jake Lambert from Tempcover said: “We understand potholes are a growing concern for drivers, and it’s frustrating to see some of these hazards lingering for years, only getting worse.

“If road conditions worsen, driving becomes more challenging, and the risk of tyre or suspension damage rises. Temporary car insurance can help by ensuring you’re covered for unexpected bumps like potential repairs. Whether you’re sharing a long drive or using a borrowed car, it can offer added security and greater peace of mind on the road.”

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