Introduction from Bill Wiggin MP
In Herefordshire we have more than 2000 miles of road to maintain, ranging from busy main roads to the endless narrow country lanes.
With the majority of Herefordians relying on our roads to go about their business, it is vital that we keep on top of their maintenance.
Every year we face heavy rainfall and flooding which inevitably worsens conditions of the roads and makes the need for proper maintenance all the more necessary.
The Government has been clear that investing in Britain’s roads and infrastructure is one of their top priorities.
Between 2015 and 2019, the Government designated over £53m to Herefordshire roads.
In the 2020 Budget, the Chancellor announced that Councils would receive £500 million in 2020/21 through the £2.5 billion Potholes Fund.
This meant that in 2020/21 alone, the Government provided Herefordshire with a total of £19.9 million to maintain the roads.
Whilst the Government continues to provide funding for road maintenance, it is regrettable that Herefordshire Council have chosen to prioritise other matters.
Last year, they proceeded to purchase the Maylord Centre for a hefty sum of £4.5 million at the very time that the dry weather would have allowed for proper road maintenance to be carried out.
I am continually contacted by constituents who share their concerns about specific stretches of road, and I always endeavour to raise this with Herefordshire Council and Balfour Beatty as a priority.
You will remember that the B4224 was closed for 14 months following damage that occurred during heavy rainfall in February 2020.
Throughout this time, I sought regular progress updates from Balfour Beatty and the Council and published these on my website to keep residents informed.
This page holds information on how you can report the road problems you come across, and also catalogues previous cases I have dealt with the responses I have received from Balfour Beatty, Herefordshire Council and the Government.
It is my hope that you will find the information herein helpful.
Government replies to Written Questions
Problems Bill has reported recently and responses he has received
Sir Bill Wiggin MP 