Andrew has welcomed the announcement of a Government plan to make utility firms that dig up roads responsible for repair work for longer, saying it will protect local taxpayers.
This follows the Department for Transport launching a consultation on creating a guarantee that utility firms must redo road repair work if a pothole forms within five years. Under current rules, responsibility passes to the local transport authority after two years with the cost paid for through council tax.
Under the proposals, utility companies would be held accountable for low-quality repairs that fail within five years, posing a danger to all road users and causing damage motorists’ vehicles.
Andrew said: “Utility companies taking more responsibility for failed roar repairs will better protect local authorities and taxpayers.
“Hundreds of Pendle residents write to me following my recent transport survey to report problems with Pendle’s roads. Despite the Conservatives tripling road repair funding, people remain distressed with the state of our roads and many believe repairs are poorly done and do not last long enough.
“I am pleased to see the Government is taking measures to shift the burden of this from local taxpayers to big utility companies.”
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Potholes are the biggest enemy for road users and this government is looking at all options to keep our roads in the best condition.”
“Road surfaces can be made worse by utility companies, so imposing higher standards on repairs will help keep roads pothole-free for longer.”
The consultation closes on 6 May.
