Motorists across the UK are battling potholes that have remained unrepaired for years, with councils failing to act on thousands of complaints.
Almost 80 councils have potholes first reported as far back as 2007 still marked as unresolved, according to new analysis by . Among the worst areas for the oldest-reported potholes are Glasgow, Leeds, Edinburgh, Manchester, Cardiff, Liverpool, and Birmingham, where motorists have been navigating the same road craters for 18 years.
The analysis, based on data from FixMyStreet.com, shows that 69 councils each have over 1,000 potholes left unrepaired, with Cheshire East Council topping the list with a staggering 17,191 open reports.
Hertfordshire County Council follows closely behind with 12,650 unresolved potholes, while Essex County Council, home to pop legend Rod Stewart, ranks third with 11,190. The singer has previously voiced his frustration over the state of the roads in Essex, even considering selling his sports cars because the conditions made driving unbearable.
69 councils each have over 1,000 potholes left unrepaired (Image: Getty)
Councils with the most open pothole reports
Council
Oldest reported pothole
Open pothole reports
Cheshire East Council
Mon 9 March 2020
17,191
Hertfordshire County Council
Wed 25 April 2007
12,650
Essex County Council
Wed 20 June 2007
11,190
Buckinghamshire Council
Mon 13 January 2020
9,793
Glasgow City Council
Thu 22 March 2007
8,933
Kent County Council
Tue 10 April 2007
7,571
West Sussex County Council
Fri 27 April 2007
7,555
Birmingham City Council
Sat 21 April 2007
6,675
Warwickshire County Council
Sat 10 January 2015
5,606
Source: Tempcover/
Among the longest-standing potholes in the UK is one located in Bottom o’ th’ Moor, a village near Bolton, which was reported on April 6, 2007, yet remains unfilled. Users of FixMyStreet.com have warned that potholes like this one pose a significant hazard to motorcycles and other road users.
How to protect your vehicle from damage
As the pothole crisis continues to plague British roads, temporary car insurance experts at Tempcover have provided motorists with essential tips to reduce the risk of vehicle damage:
* Stay vigilant: Watch for road damage ahead and be cautious of puddles that may conceal deep potholes.
* Keep a safe distance: Maintain a three-second gap from the vehicle in front to give yourself time to react.
* Reduce speed: Slow down on poorly maintained roads, especially in bad weather, to minimise impact.
* Check tyre pressure: Properly inflated tyres provide better protection against pothole damage.
* Report potholes: Notify your local council to increase the chances of timely repairs.
* Document damage: If your vehicle suffers pothole damage, take photos and gather evidence to support any compensation claims.
Jake Lambert, of Tempcover, said: “We understand potholes are a growing concern for drivers, and it’s frustrating to see some of these hazards lingering for years, only getting worse.
“If road conditions worsen, driving becomes more challenging, and the risk of tyre or suspension damage rises. Temporary car insurance can help by ensuring you’re covered for unexpected bumps like potential repairs. Whether you’re sharing a long drive or using a borrowed car, it can offer added security and greater peace of mind on the road.”