Falkirk Council is in dire need of additional funding to maintain the roads in the area in a decent state, as reported by the Daily Record. A recent survey on council tax revealed that roads were the most highly valued service by the public, highlighting the importance of adequate funding for road maintenance.
According to a report presented to Falkirk Council’s Scrutiny Committee, the current annual allocation of £3.5 million for maintaining 325 km of roads falls far short of the required amount. It is estimated that nearly £8 million per year is needed to keep the roads in good condition and prevent further deterioration.
While recent additional funding has improved the condition of the road network, sustaining this level of maintenance requires a significant increase in annual capital investment. Without a budget of £7.7 million per year, the report warns that the service can only hope to “manage decline” rather than make any improvements.
Malcolm Binnie, Director of Place at Falkirk Council, underscored the importance of considering roads as a priority when setting the budget. He emphasised the need for elected members to allocate additional funds to roads in order to prevent further deterioration and ensure the safety of road users.
David Maley, Roads Manager, highlighted the cost-saving benefits of investing in road maintenance, as prompt repairs are more cost-effective than reactive repairs in response to damages. The report also mentioned that road maintenance was the most highly valued service according to a recent council tax survey.
In conclusion, the plea for increased funding for road maintenance in Falkirk serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in the daily lives of the public. Adequate investment in maintaining roads is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, as well as supporting economic activities in the region.