Dumfries and Galloway Council has paid out over £300,000 in compensation for pothole damage in the past year, with nearly 20,000 potholes reported to the local authority in 2023/24. The figures were unveiled following information requests made by the Scottish Liberal Democrats, highlighting Dumfries and Galloway Council as the top-paying Scottish local authority for pothole compensation last year. Across Scotland, more than £4 million has been disbursed in the last five years as a result of pothole-related claims.
Willie Rennie MSP, the Liberal Democrats communities spokesperson, criticised the SNP government, stating that potholes have become a significant issue on the roads, causing property damage and personal injury to motorists. Rennie highlighted the financial burden on cash-strapped councils and called for better support for local authorities to tackle the issue of deteriorating road infrastructure in Scotland.
The data provided by the Scottish councils revealed that £870,000 was paid out in compensation in 2023/24, with Dumfries and Galloway Council accounting for £326,000 of that total, surpassing other council areas like Glasgow. The council spokesperson emphasised their commitment to improving the region’s roads through a planned programme of works, including inspecting and repairing reported defects promptly.
Furthermore, the council’s new customer defect reporting system encourages individuals to report any road issues, paving the way for efficient allocation of resources to ensure safety and reliability across the region. Despite the challenges posed by the increasing number of potholes reported, the council remains dedicated to addressing these concerns proactively.
In response to the situation, a Scottish Government spokesperson highlighted the significant financial support provided to local councils, with over £14 billion allocated this year, representing a real-terms increase of 2.5% from the previous year. This financial backing aims to assist councils in managing day-to-day operations and addressing local needs and priorities effectively.
As the issue of potholes and road maintenance continues to be a pressing concern in Scotland, efforts to support local authorities and enhance infrastructure resilience remain crucial for ensuring road safety and efficiency across the region.