New government data reveals that Somerset’s road network is among the best maintained in England, yet many local residents remain skeptical. According to the Department for Transport, Somerset Council earned a ‘green’ rating for road condition and maintenance as part of a nationwide assessment. However, the council received an ‘amber’ overall rating due to a ‘red’ score for spending efficiency—even though it is on track to use 98% of its allocated capital funding.
The South West region has received £1.5 billion from the government to improve roads, and Somerset plans to resurface 34 miles and treat nearly 115 miles preventatively in 2025/26, dedicating 89% of its £50 million budget to preventative measures.
Councillor Richard Wilkins expressed satisfaction at the high maintenance score but questioned the low spending rating. “We are delighted to be among the top authorities, but the red grade on spend is confusing given we’re using almost all our funding on preventative work,” he said.
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Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the importance of increased funding after years of neglect. “Drivers in the South West have paid the price because our roads were left to deteriorate. This new funding gives councils long-term certainty to make roads safer and save drivers money,” she said.
Despite official scores, many Somerset residents feel their roads tell a different story. Local commenters described dodging potholes as an everyday challenge. Helen Gosney shared, “Whenever we return to Somerset, the potholes are impossible to miss.” Sally Cattle noted particularly poor conditions around Yeovil, while Kirsty Andrews humorously described potholes so deep they become temporary ponds for ducks.
Others highlighted specific problem areas. Dorothy Potter mentioned the stretch from the A30 to A303 through Dinnington as resembling a cart track, with frequent potholes forcing drivers onto hedges. Mick Foster went further, calling the roads worse than dirt tracks and in desperate need of complete resurfacing.
Some attributed the issues to deeper budget challenges. Felix Leith explained that funds from vehicle excise duty largely go to central government, leaving councils underfunded and reliant on temporary fixes rather than comprehensive repairs. Jackie Rock called for a collective refusal to pay vehicle tax to force governmental change, pointing to the risks potholes pose to drivers and vehicles alike.
The contrast between Somerset’s official road condition ratings and residents’ lived experiences highlights ongoing concerns. Are Somerset’s roads truly among the best, or does the county still have a long way to go? Readers are invited to share their own stories of potholes, repairs, and road maintenance in their communities.