Ongoing Pothole Crisis Worsens Rural Road Conditions in Northern Ireland
Despite over £500 million spent over five years to repair Northern Ireland’s roads, potholes and deteriorating rural conditions remain a significant concern. Transport providers, especially those catering to vulnerable passengers, report increased hazards on rural roads, particularly in Mid Ulster. With almost 120,000 road defects recorded this year alone, local officials express frustration over inadequate infrastructure funding amidst a broader funding crisis. Recent budget reallocations have allocated some funds for road maintenance, but the exact amount remains unclear, raising worries about the sustainability of repairs in the face of ongoing deterioration.