Motorists urge new government to make pothole crisis top priority

A staggering 96% of motorists believe that addressing the pothole crisis should be the top priority for the new Labour government, according to recent research.

The August Startline Used Car Tracker also revealed that 92% of drivers want fairer fuel prices, 91% are calling for lower insurance costs, 85% seek better public transport, and 81% support increased road building to reduce congestion.

Interest in electrification is also notable, with 79% of respondents requesting more electric car chargers and 76% wanting the government to provide greater support for transitioning to electric vehicles.

Paul Burgess, CEO of Startline Motor Finance, commenting, said: “It’s not surprising that road conditions are a major concern. Potholes are more than just an inconvenience—they symbolize a broader issue with the nation’s infrastructure.

“Motorists are clearly looking for government action on rising costs like fuel and insurance, as well as improvements in public transport and assistance with switching to electric vehicles. It’s a long list of demands.

“The challenge for the new prime minister is balancing these demands with the limited financial resources available.”

When asked which improvements they would be willing to pay more taxes for, public transport topped the list at 20%.

Burgess added: “After years of rising costs, it’s understandable that families are reluctant to pay more in taxes. For example, only 14% would be willing to pay higher taxes to fix the pothole problem.

“However, it’s noteworthy that the area where people are most open to paying more is public transport. This suggests a growing interest in trains and buses as alternatives to cars, with a desire for better options.”

The Startline Used Car Tracker, compiled monthly by APD Global Research for Startline Motor Finance, surveyed 321 consumers and 62 dealers.