Roads in Ruin – Minister Must Get Her House in Order

Carla Lockhart MP • May 28, 2025

Carla Lockhart, MP for Upper Bann, has issued a stark warning about the worsening condition of Northern Ireland’s road network, demanding immediate action from the Infrastructure Minister to address a crisis that is putting lives at risk and costing taxpayers millions.

Across Northern Ireland, roads are deteriorating at an alarming rate. Crumbling surfaces, deepening potholes and overgrown junctions are becoming increasingly common, with motorists facing both safety hazards and rising repair bills. In response, Carla Lockhart MP has launched a petition calling on the Minister for Infrastructure to prioritise road maintenance before further damage is done.

Speaking on the issue, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“Every day, I hear from constituents across Upper Bann who are frustrated and angry at the state of our roads. They are dealing with burst tyres, cracked windscreens, damaged suspensions and dangerous driving conditions. This is not just inconvenient, it is dangerous and wholly unacceptable.

“The facts speak for themselves:

Over £25 million paid out in compensation for road-related vehicle damage over the last five years
5,689 claims submitted in the past year alone — more than double the number made in 2019
119,000 potholes reported across Northern Ireland in 2024
All of this while routine maintenance budgets continue to be slashed

“This situation is not the fault of DfI staff on the ground, who are working incredibly hard with limited resources. Responsibility for this lies squarely at the door of the Minister. It is the Minister who must step up, show leadership, and provide the investment and direction needed to restore our roads to a safe standard.

“Road maintenance is not a luxury. It is a core responsibility of government. Safe, reliable infrastructure is vital for communities, for business, and for basic public safety. The current approach is not working, and it is time for change.

“That is why I have launched a petition, calling on the Minister to get her house in order and prioritise road repairs. It is time to stop making excuses and start delivering results.”

Members of the public can sign the petition here:

www.change.org/p/prioritise-northern-ireland-road-maintenance-carla-lockhart-mp

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