As a resident of Lancashire I find myself increasingly frustrated with our local council’s lack of speed and efficiency in addressing the growing pothole problem. The dangerous conditions on our roads are not only a hazard to all road users but also a financial burden on residents like myself. Driving through Lancashire has become an obstacle course, with potholes dotting nearly every road.
These hazardous gaps in the pavement are not just an inconvenience; they are a serious safety risk, particularly for those on two wheels. Each journey feels like a gamble, hoping to avoid a sudden jolt that could lead to an accident. One of the most infuriating aspects of this issue is the lack of transparency and accountability from our local council. When potholes are reported, there is no clear indication of when, or even if, they will be repaired. The council’s risk-based approach is vague and leaves much to be desired in terms of clarity and reliability. Unlike East Riding Council, which inspects reported potholes within 24 hours and fixes the most urgent ones promptly, our council seems to operate without any sense of urgency.
The financial impact on residents is significant. I, like many others, have had to pay out of pocket for car repairs caused by these potholes. The damage to tires, suspension systems, and even the body of the car adds up quickly, and it feels incredibly unjust that we are left to bear the costs of the council’s negligence. The question of accountability looms large. Who is responsible for the state of our roads? While we are the ones paying for repairs and dealing with the inconvenience, the council remains largely unresponsive and indifferent. The lack of a clear, accessible reporting system for potholes only compounds the problem, making it difficult for residents to even alert the authorities to the dangers we face daily. This situation is unacceptable. We deserve better from our local council. We pay our taxes with the expectation that essential services, such as road maintenance, will be handled efficiently and responsibly.
The current state of our roads is a clear indication that this expectation is not being met. It’s high time that the Lancashire council took immediate and decisive action to address the pothole crisis. They must improve their response times, provide clear criteria and timelines for repairs, and ensure that our roads are safe for all users. Until then, we will continue to face unnecessary risks and financial burdens that could easily be avoided with a more proactive and transparent approach to road maintenance. I urge other residents to join me in demanding better from our local council. Together, we can push for the changes needed to make our roads safer and hold those responsible accountable for their inaction. By Mark Salisbury
