Potholes still affecting rural journeys after £500m spend

Clement Cuthbertson, a DUP councillor for Mid Ulster, said the figures “mightn’t be considered that surprising given that Mid Ulster has so many rural roads and important trunk roads that constantly need maintenance”.

“So while the money being spent is welcomed, and it’s high, the state of the roads show it’s not enough when you look at the level of potholes that we still have.”

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd recently launched the Road Safety Strategy to 2030, which sets the direction for future road safety policies and actions.

This includes regular inspections of the road network to identify defects with funding targeted at areas of greatest need.

A DfI spokesperson added: “Sadly, evidence shows that more than 95% of road deaths are due to human error – including careless or inattentive driving, inappropriate speed for the road or the conditions, and drink and drug driving account for most deaths and serious injuries.

“One of the best ways to ensure safety on our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury by 2050, is by changing road user behaviour.”