Heatwave partly behind surge in pothole-related breakdowns across Norfolk
The AA has revealed there was a vehicle damage spike in July as local mechanics urge more investment in road repairs
Norfolk’s drivers are being warned about worsening road conditions as a summer heatwave is partly blamed for a sharp rise in pothole-related vehicle breakdowns. New figures from the AA show it responded to 50,091 UK call-outs due to damaged road surfaces in July, a 2.1% increase compared with the same month last year, reversing a previously improving trend in 2025.
According to the AA, high temperatures have played a significant role in creating poor road conditions by worsening already weak surfaces. Damaged or worn tyres have become more susceptible to failure, while an increase in rural tourism places added pressure on country lanes that are often low on maintenance priorities.
Typical problems caused by potholes include damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs, and distorted wheels. RAC data puts the average cost of repairing more serious damage at £460.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has highlighted the dangers, saying broken roads “can risk lives and cost families hundreds if not thousands of pounds on repairs,” and urging councils to step up repair efforts.
AA president Edmund King warned: “This summer’s heatwave has starkly exposed the fragility of Britain’s roads. While investment and repair campaigns have made a difference, the recent setback illustrates that much more must be done to create a safe and reliable road network for everyone. We urge the Government and local authorities to redouble their efforts in tackling the pothole crisis, prioritising rural routes and frequently-used cycling and motorcycling corridors.”
The AA is joined by industry partners like JCB in calling for innovation and long-term investment. Ben Rawding, JCB general manager, said: “While funding plays a vital role, it’s innovation that enables us to do more with the resources already available. Moving away from short-term fixes is essential if we're to make meaningful and lasting progress.”
Local mechanics say the impacts are being felt daily. Matthew Moore, from The Number One Motor Company in Norwich, explained, “We invested a couple of years ago in new equipment to make these jobs quicker, like a new spring compressor. The best thing to do is report potholes to the council. If you hit a pothole, make sure you’ve not damaged your tyre or the steering isn’t out of alignment.”
Bringing all local roads in England and Wales up to standard is now estimated to cost £16.8 billion, whilst government funding for potholes has increased by £500 million to £1.6 billion this year.
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.