Blackpool Council repaired 15,071 potholes between 2021 and 2025 as cost national backlog hits £18.6bn
The backlog of pothole repairs across England and Wales has reached a record estimated cost of £18.6bn, highlighting the growing pressure on local authorities to tackle deteriorating roads.
Despite the nationwide issue, Blackpool Council has been recognised as one of the stronger performers in addressing potholes across its network. New data from motoring experts at Blackcircles, obtained through Freedom of Information requests, reveals which areas are carrying out the highest number of repairs.
Sign up for our Blackpool Gazette retro newsletter - warm nostalgia delivered to your inbox - weekly.
Blackpool ranked ninth overall, with 15,071 potholes fixed between 2021 and 2025. This equates to a repair rate of 3,364 per 100 kilometres, placing the seaside resort among the more proactive councils in maintaining road conditions.
Join our Blackpool Gazette WhatsApp group to get all the top stories delivered straight to your phone
The findings come as drivers continue to face increasing disruption and costs linked to poor road surfaces, with councils under mounting pressure to invest in long-term solutions.
“The scale of pothole reports in parts of the UK highlights how persistent the problem remains, and our findings show that drivers are feeling the impact, both financially and in terms of road safety,” said Ray Kavanagh, Blackcircles.com CEO.
“Even relatively small potholes can cause issues if struck at speed. The most common problems we see are tyre sidewall bulges, punctures, cracked alloy wheels, and suspension misalignment. In some cases, the damage isn’t immediately visible but develops later as vibration, uneven tyre wear, or steering pull.
“If a driver hits a pothole, the safest approach is to maintain control of the vehicle, avoid sudden swerving, and check the tyres as soon as it’s safe to do so. Look for cuts, bulges, or loss of pressure, and pay attention to any changes in handling. Addressing problems early can prevent more serious (and possibly more expensive) repairs further down the line.
“Reporting potholes can help them get repaired faster, saving other motorists from potential damage and hefty repair bills. Most local councils have a dedicated page on their website for reporting road faults, but because these pages are not uniform across the country, some are easier to find than others.”