Concerns for pothole numbers in local areas

(Image: Kenneth Gibson)

Local authorities in Ayrshire have shared their concerns over recent numbers of potholes reported in the past few years.

Statistics from Confused.com revealed that East and South Ayrshire has seen over 13,000 of the road obstructions reported in a four-year period.

East Ayrshire saw a total of 7,400 between 2022 and 2025, with South Ayrshire recording 6,160 in the same period as other UK Councils have been seen to pay out over £11 million for vehicle damage.

Drivers are said to be paying out of their own pocket for repairs, which cost £175 on average. as opposed to receiving compensation.

One Facebook user highlighted the issues surrounding East Ayrshire roads, calling it the “pothole capital of the world” and referring to one on Kilmarnock’s London Road as a “crater”.

Ayrshire Roads Alliance have assured that better services will be made available in the process of tackling the ongoing issues in local areas.

Jane Corrie, the sector’s head of roads, said: “The Ayrshire Roads Alliance is committed to delivering high quality road and transportation services to our communities in East and South Ayrshire.

“In addition to our own routine inspections of roads throughout the area, we have a well-established reporting system which is well used by vigilant members of the public to alert us to any new potholes. This allows us to act swiftly where necessary to make emergency repairs.

“As always, the need for repairs outstrips our budgets, so we carry out risk assessments and regularly prioritise to ensure the best possible use of our allocated resources.”

ARA added that South Ayrshire have outlined their plan to invest over £30 million in road infrastructure. in a bid of “helping to improve connectivity”.

Scottish Labour have also made their plea for Scotland’s roads with a £350 million fund to invest in tackling nearly five million potholes across the nation.