The Department for Transport reported on 21 October 2026 that nearly 7,000 miles of road resurfacing will be completed this year, about 10% more than last year. Figures submitted by local councils show total road maintenance spending of £4.9 billion this year, £800 million more than before the current government took office, against a stated £7.3 billion in maintenance funding.

The same day, the government released a further £220 million in incentive-based funding to councils across England for meeting performance targets. Further funding is due later in the year and can be withheld from councils that miss their targets. The reports also indicate that 94% of councils will complete preventative roadworks this year, up from 76% last year. Separate figures released the previous week showed local road conditions improved in the year ending March 2026, with fewer minor roads needing maintenance.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the figures show progress while acknowledging more work remains. The RAC's Simon Williams called the data encouraging and said the test will be whether road users notice a difference; Kwik Fit's Dan Joyce welcomed the added focus on proactive maintenance. The release also cited a recent announcement on antisocial behaviour on transport, including £100 fines on buses.