The Government has announced 19 road improvement projects across the country will receive a share of £75m.

The Department for Transport said the schemes will help cut congestion, reduce journey times and improve reliability.

Among the projects, which will receive funding is the £4.6m refurbishment of the A589 Greyhound Bridge in Lancashire, which will enable heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to access the bridge.

Road users in Devon will also benefit from a major carriageway and drainage improvement scheme to help regenerate part of the A361.

‘We are taking the big decisions for Britain’s future by investing in the infrastructure the country needs and ensuring motorists have the well-maintained roads they expect and deserve,’ said transport minister Jesse Norman.

‘This investment will enable councils to repair roads and key infrastructure, like bridges – boosting reliability on our roads, so people can stay connected with family, friends and employment, while also keeping businesses connected with customers.

‘Most of the schemes will be delivered within the next 12 months, so many drivers will see an immediate impact,’ added Mr Norman.

The announcement comes after the RAC warned yesterday (August 1) that the number of pothole-related faults attended by its patrols in the second quarter of this year increased by almost a third (31%) compared to the same period in 2016.

The figures reveal that between April and June RAC patrols helped 3,565 motorists whose vehicles had suffered issues that could be largely attributable to poor road surfaces, including broken suspension springs, damaged shock absorbers or distorted wheels.