Bradford Council has pledged to repair 20,000 potholes by April next year after securing more than £3.1 million in additional road maintenance funding.
The money forms part of a £15 million package allocated across West Yorkshire by the Department for Transport and distributed through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA). Bradford will receive £3,192,455, with funding also allocated to Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield councils to tackle potholes and improve road conditions.
Speaking at a recent WYCA meeting, Bradford Council leader cllr Stephen Place said the funding would allow the authority to explore purchasing two JCB “super pothole machines” to speed up repairs.
Addressing West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, cllr Place said: “Thanks on behalf of Bradford. It will allow us to explore getting two JCB super pothole machines. I’ve said our target is to deal with 20,000 potholes in the financial year. It is a big target, but we will achieve it.”
The funding package is expected to support more than 20 kilometres of highway renewal work across West Yorkshire, alongside around 37,000 square metres of carriageway patching.
According to a report presented to the Combined Authority, poor road conditions can lead to congestion, delays and increased costs for motorists and businesses.
The report stated: “Poor highway conditions across the road network can significantly affect the quality of journeys for all users, lead to congestion and delays, and impact on the cost of motoring for private car users and freight.” It added that a further 251 highways maintenance schemes have been identified for delivery during 2026/27 using the additional funding.
Many of the planned interventions are located in areas experiencing high levels of deprivation, with the report noting that improved road conditions could help reduce motoring costs for residents.
Transport capital programme director Simon Pope told members the investment would bring significant economic benefits, including reduced vehicle repair costs and improved journey times.
Wakefield Council leader Karl Johnson welcomed the funding, saying: “This funding is much needed, especially in Wakefield.”
The funding package was approved by Combined Authority members, with Mayor Tracy Brabin responding: “Excellent, good stuff.”
