William Eichler 29 April 2026

Bristol potholes complaints up 700%

Bristol potholes complaints up 700% image
© photopixel / Shutterstock.com.

Bristol City Council has faced criticism after pothole complaints rose 700%, with repair times exceeding targets.

Pothole reports from motorists increased from just 103 in May last year to 841 by February, according to a freedom of information request sent by The Sun.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander criticised the council, telling the newspaper: ‘Repairs are taking three times longer than they should and dragging on for months. That is not just poor performance, it is dangerous.’

In response, the Green-led council said it is possible the FOI figures include duplicate reports for the same pothole.

Cllr Ed Plowden, chair of the Transport and Connectivity Committee, said: ‘Roads are inspected regularly to check their condition. Every road is checked at least once a year, with busy roads inspected once a month.

‘We aim to repair potholes within 28 days, in line with national guidelines and we are working closely with our contractors to make sure repairs are completed on time.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Social Work Assistant

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022
We are looking to appoint a Social Work Assistant to work within the Easington Locality.   The team provides an effective and efficient Assessment and Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Worker For People with Dual Sensory Loss

Durham County Council
Grade 9 - Pre Progression (£35,412 - £39,152) - Grade 11 - Post Progression (£40,777 - £45,091)
Do you have experience of working with people who have dual sensory loss?  Are you a Social Worker or a Visual Impaired Rehabilitation Worker?   We ha Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Community Wellbeing Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,403 - £28,598
Temporary until March 2028 - 30 hour post  Wellbing Sport and Leisure are looking for a Wellbeing Assistant to join their team in the East and West o Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Administrator

Durham County Council
£26,403- £28,598 (Pro Rata)
School Administrator Grade 5, £26,403- £28,598 (Pro Rata) Permanent- Full Time- 37 hours per week. Required to start 1st September 2026, pending DBS c Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Residential Workers

Durham County Council
Grade 7 £30,024 - £33,699
Residential Workers - Opportunities are available across the County Durham Area Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner