Mayor Richard Parker has set out plans to double the amount of funding available for road repairs across the West Midlands, aiming to tackle potholes and improve the condition of the region’s highways.
Under the proposals, £240 million would be made available to six local councils - Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton – to support highway maintenance over a five‑year period from April 2027. This represents a significant increase on the £120 million allocated for the current five‑year funding period.
The proposed funding package will be considered by the West Midlands Combined Authority Board when it meets on Friday, 13 February.
If approved, the investment would provide councils with greater long‑term certainty, allowing them to plan and deliver more extensive resurfacing programmes rather than relying on short‑term fixes.
The Mayor has already secured an additional £20 million from the Department for Transport to top up council road repair budgets for 2025–27. This funding is currently helping councils repair thousands more potholes while preparations are made for the new five‑year settlement.
Alongside the major resurfacing programme, there are plans to provide additional funding for smaller transport schemes, including new and improved pedestrian crossings, pathway upgrades, and junction improvements.
These projects will focus on improving road safety and encouraging more people to walk, wheel and cycle, supporting healthier and more sustainable travel choices.
The increase in highway funding forms part of a wider review of transport investment across the region, aimed at maximising the impact of the £2.4 billion Transport for City Regions funding secured by the Mayor last summer.
The review is designed to ensure that investment across tram, train, bus, road, cycling and walking networks supports:
- Job creation
- Business growth
- New housing delivery
- Faster, more reliable journeys
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker commented:
“This winter has been brutal on our highways forcing drivers to navigate thousands of potholes, cracks and deep craters. They aren't just an inconvenience, they are costing motorists a fortune in repairs and putting cyclists at serious risk.
“People across the West Midlands tell me that the lack of investment in our roads is one of their top frustrations – and I share that frustration. So we’re making road repairs a top priority by doubling our investment, providing our councils with the funding they need to ensure smoother, safer journeys for everyone.”
Road repairs in Birmingham are funded through a separate private finance initiative arrangement and are not included in the £240 million proposal.
The WMCA Board’s decision later this month will determine whether the proposed funding package moves forward.
Image credit: iStock
