Somerset Council is set to increase its investment in road maintenance significantly over the next four years, thanks to a substantial funding boost from the central government.
At a meeting held in Taunton on March 11, the council’s executive approved its local transport plan, which will be submitted to the Department for Transport (DfT) for final approval by March 20. This plan outlines how the council intends to allocate approximately £282 million in transport funding through to March 2030.
Nearly £162 million of this budget will be dedicated specifically to highways maintenance. This includes essential work such as full resurfacing, surface dressing, pothole repairs, drainage improvements, and other critical infrastructure upkeep.
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Mike O’Dowd-Jones, Somerset Council’s service director for infrastructure and transport, highlighted the importance of this funding increase: “There is now a much stronger focus on outcomes – we will be held accountable for delivering on what we promise. The government expects that the funds allocated for maintenance will be used strictly for that purpose, with limited flexibility.”
The annual budget for highway maintenance stands at £161.86 million, but the government can withhold up to 29% of this funding each year if performance standards are not met. This includes criteria such as timely repairs and quality workmanship.
In January, the government ranked Somerset 26th out of 153 local authorities, awarding the council an overall ‘amber’ score for its highway maintenance performance. While the council acknowledges some confusing aspects of the assessment, it views the ranking positively.
Although the transport plan does not specify exact locations or detailed spending breakdowns, residents can access current information on local roadworks via the council’s website at www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/roadworks-and-travel.
Council leader Bill Revans expressed satisfaction with the council’s swift action under tight deadlines: “We received notice of this funding on December 19 and submitted our plan by March 20. This demonstrates our ability to work efficiently and responsively.”
The plan also commits around £16 million towards enhancing walking and cycling infrastructure, promoting sustainable and accessible alternatives to car travel. Of this, just under £1.6 million is earmarked for rural areas.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, emphasized the council’s commitment to broadening transport options: “While maintaining our road network remains a priority, we aim to encourage more people to walk, cycle, or use public transport where feasible. It is essential that these alternatives are safe, accessible, and easy to use.”