Broken Roads. Broken Promises.
In 2023, Buckinghamshire - under Conservative control - ranked among the worst counties for pothole damage claims, according to seven years of data from car insurer Admiral1. Two years on, local residents are still raising serious concerns about crumbling roads and footpaths, which pose significant safety risks for motorists, cyclists, and vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled people.
More recent data from the Department for Transport shows that fewer major roads in Buckinghamshire are meeting adequate standards2, with the RAC stating it was "concerning" so many roads had deteriorated.
Despite these ongoing issues, Tory-led Buckinghamshire Council continues to use one of the most expensive contractors in the UK, while the cost of bringing roads up to standard now approaches a staggering £500 million after decades of under investment. This is not value for money. The Liberal Democrats believe that the council must prioritise more cost-effective solutions, adopting proven road maintenance technologies already in use elsewhere to deliver safer, better roads for all.
Cllr Peter Cooper, Deputy Leader of the Lib Dems at Bucks Council says: “Having been a Councillor since 1999, the Conservatives in Bucks have not invested historically in highways maintenance, gulley cleaning, road sweeping, drain clearance and keeping our streams cleared of litter. This has led to severe flooding across the county which deteriorates our roads further.”
The Liberal Democrats positive plan for Buckinghamshire promises progress on road maintenance and public transport solutions, particularly in the rural areas.
(1) Bucks Free Press, 16/01/2023 (2) Bucks Herald, 24/12/2024