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.’

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Skills Pipelines: What local government needs to know

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