Transport Minister Jesse Norman has revealed almost £200 million is to be invested to improve the conditions of roads in England.

Up to £46m will be invested towards repairing one million potholes, while £151m will be allocated for the local highways maintenance incentive fund.

Other highlights include;

• a £500,000 competition for connected technologies to challenge councils to develop pilot projects of new technologies for the collection of road condition and pothole data..

• £4m for the Cycle Rail scheme, which pays for high quality cycle parking built at stations.


• a six-month extension to three cycle and walk to work pilot projects in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and Liverpool.

Minister Norman made the announcement during a visit in York on Thursday to view progress of an innovative pothole spotter trial and a new e-bike.

The pilot involves fitting high-definition cameras fitted to bicycles, buses and bin lorries to monitor road conditions. This will give councils detailed information so they can fill potholes when they occur as well as plan resurfacing works and help prevent potholes and other road defects.

Roads Minister Jesse Norman said: "People need great roads to get about, do business and see friends and family.

"We're investing record amounts at present to improve the condition of our roads, so drivers and cyclists don't have to dodge potholes to travel safely.

"We're also looking at how new innovations can help councils keep their roads in the best condition, saving money and planning their maintenance better."

(LM/MH)