New government guidance requires local authorities to publish detailed transparency reports on road conditions and repair practices.
The move aims to increase accountability and ensure that councils are investing in long-term fixes rather than short-term patches.
Riders who have suffered from potholes will feel a sense of relief with the new rules, but some may be skeptical about their effectiveness.
The carrot for compliance is a threat of funding cuts, which could impact nearly a third of highways maintenance funding.
Councils judged 'green' will receive additional support and funding to improve standards.
The era of repeated temporary fixes is being phased out in favor of preventative resurfacing programmes.
Transport experts claim that the current approach to repairs is causing potholes to recur in the same location.
Road safety is a top priority, and the new rules aim to deliver smoother and safer journeys for drivers.
The government is also under pressure to address the issue of road maintenance funding, with councils already struggling with stretched budgets.
The new reporting requirements will feed into updated red/amber/green ratings, emphasizing the need for preventative resurfacing programmes.
