Highland Council referred to Scotland’s Road Work Commissioner over performance in repairs delivery
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MSP Maree Todd wants the commissioner to probe the quality of Highland road repairs, claiming the region is being outperformed by almost 80 per cent of Scotland’s other local authorities.
The council has often pointed up the large amount of roads it has to deal with in more remote areas compared to other regions, but Ms Todd said the latest statistics make clear that Highland is underperforming even in comparison to other similarly rural regions.
The authority is currently ranked 26th out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities for repairs performance – and fifth out of seven rural areas.
Ms Todd said: “Our road network is essential in providing accessibility to our rural communities and public services. However, following years of poor roads maintenance and inadequate repairs, the road network is failing communities, causing accidents and damage to vehicles.
“This week, I have written to Scotland’s Road Work Commissioner to request an examination of the Highland Council’s approach to road repairs.
“Following a meeting with the transport minister, Graeme Dey, it’s clear that rurality is not the sole issue at play here.
“We can see from the road authorities ranking that areas with road networks similar to those in the Highland Council area, like Aberdeenshire and Moray, do not suffer the same poor road conditions.”
She added: We have seen the road infrastructure deteriorate drastically across the constituency in recent years, therefore it’s vital that when repairs are carried out, they are durable and can withstand the pressures of cold winters and increased traffic.
“While I appreciate there has been considerable maintenance work carried out throughout the summer, I think it is important that such work is reviewed to ensure the longevity of our Highland road network.
“I’m hopeful that the Scotland’s Road Work Commissioner will be able to assist in such a review.”
The council were invited to respond to this report but did not offer any comment.
