One in three Scottish roads are still unsafe

Posted: May 30, 2013

Posted in: Road Traffic Accidents 

Only two years after councils agreed to take a new approach to road repairs, one in three Scottish roads are still unsafe for motorists.

Since 2005, the condition of Scotland’s roads has continued to deteriorate, from only 69.9% being classified as acceptable. Audit Scotland have recognised only slight improvements between 2009-10 and 2011-12 with an increase from 66.1% to 66.7% being deemed acceptable — far from adequate figures. 

In 2011, an Accounts Commission audit report argued that changes were vital in order to prevent a further decline in the condition of local roads, and a potential increase in road traffic accidents — while improving value for money in maintenance.  

Evidence was found that councils have been improving value for money through the means of shared tendering by councils, re-organising roads departments and altering shift patterns. Despite these slight improvements, the public’s concern is still high. Chair of Accounts Commission, John Baillie, said:

“There is a lot still to do. A well-maintained roads network is essential for all of us to get around in our daily lives and for economic prosperity.”

With improvements to local roads still moving at a slow pace, Councillor Stephen Hagan, Cosla’s development, economy, and sustainability spokesman said:

“Councils recognise the importance of the local road network as a vital asset in the lives of local communities and for local businesses. For these reasons and many others, Scottish councils continue to invest in maintaining and improving the Scottish road network”. 

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