“The amount of potholes we see on UK’s roads is very concerning as this is not just a serious safety issue, but an economic one too,” said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK.

Potholes represent a serious issue and recent figures suggest that the problem is worsening. According to the RAC, the number of pothole-related breakdowns has increased by 24% between October and December compared with the same period in 2015.

Robinson continued, “Safer road and transport networks are crucial for the UK’s economy to continue to develop. Today, the state of UK’s roads is poor and the current wet and cold weather could make it worse.

“In addition to damaging vehicles, which is already a major concern for motorists’, bad roads can cause delays and congestion undermining business productivity.

“It is positive to see that the Department for Transport (DfT) has recently acknowledged the problem and allocated extra funding to tackle potholes, but it is vital that the Government continues to cooperate with local authorities to address the issue.”

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Officer
Tel: 0207 307 3423
Mob: 07880 039 897
Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422
Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406

Web: www.nfda-uk.co.uk Email: Gabriele.severini@rmif.co.uk

The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.