Drivers across England are now able to see how well their local highway authority (LHA) is tackling potholes due to a new traffic light rating system.

The new system published by the Department for Transport (DfT) on 11 January 2026, shows ratings from 154 LHAs measured on a red, amber and green scale.  

Its grading is based on current road conditions and how effectively they are spending the government’s £7.3 billion funding in place to specifically fix potholes and invest in long term measures to maintain roads.

The red, amber, green ratings are based on 3 key areas:

• The condition of local roads
• How much LHAs are spending on road repairs
• Whether they are following best practice in maintaining highways

Motoring and cycling organisations, including the AA, RAC and British Cycling, praised the traffic-light approach for helping to hold authorities to account and encouraging a move away from short-term fixes towards preventative maintenance.

Industry bodies have also warned that road conditions still vary widely after years of tight budgets. The sector said the combination of clear performance ratings and long-term funding could drive meaningful improvements for all road users.

Find your local maintenance rating here.