Carla Lockhart MP said freeze thaw conditions have further damaged already worn and crumbling roads, leading to a surge in potholes and surface defects across towns, villages and rural areas.

She has been heavily engaged in a sustained campaign calling on the Roads Minister to take action to fix Northern Ireland’s failing road network. Last year, she delivered a petition with thousands of signatures directly to the Minister, highlighting the strength of public feeling and the scale of frustration among road users.

Speaking following reports from across the constituency, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“Following the recent cold snap, many of our already worn and crumbling roads have deteriorated even further. The result is an explosion in potholes and surface defects that are causing real danger to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

“I have been heavily engaged in a ‘Fix Our Roads’ campaign, and last year I personally delivered a petition with thousands of signatures to the Roads Minister. People have been very clear. They have had enough.

“The roads across Upper Bann are in a horrendous state, yet the Minister continues to sit idly by while communities face damaged vehicles, unsafe journeys and mounting frustration. This situation is simply unacceptable.”

Carla Lockhart MP urged residents to continue reporting potholes and defects so that pressure remains on the Department for Infrastructure to act.

She also highlighted that motorists may be entitled to seek compensation where damage has been caused by road or street defects.

“People may be able to claim compensation for damage caused by potholes. This can be done through NI Direct, and my office is available to help residents report defects, access forms and track progress.

“I would strongly encourage people to take photographs of defects and keep any invoices or receipts relating to vehicle damage, as these will be required to support a claim.”

Carla Lockhart MP confirmed that her constituency offices in Lurgan and Portadown remain open and available to assist constituents with reporting road defects and related issues.