05/06/2023 News
How we save our local roads: TotalEnergies talks to Highways Magazine
TotalEnergies has been featured in Highways Presents video series, discussing the most recent ALARM (Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance) survey.
With a record backlog of maintenance and repairs, it is clear that urgent action is needed to rescue and improve our road network. Drawing on TotalEnergies’ own portfolio of market leading bitumen products, Richard Ashton, Market Development Manager, and Gary Schofield, Technical Manager, explore the importance of investing in long term preventive management and material solutions.
The ALARM survey, now in its 28th year, has consistently highlighted a shortfall in funding for road maintenance.
This year's survey reveals a staggering £14.2 billion one-off cost required to bring the roads to a decent condition. The shift from good to satisfactory conditions is an alarming sign, with approximately 20% of the network now in poor condition and in need of urgent repair.
The decline in road conditions can be attributed, in part, to a decrease in preventative maintenance.
The reduction in surface treatments that protect roads from damage has led to an increase in potholes and accelerated deterioration. Gary Schofield draws an analogy to wildfires, where firefighters focus on protecting the land around the fire before tackling the fire itself. Similarly, local authorities should shift their priority focus from potholes to preventative maintenance to halt the decline of roads from good to satisfactory condition.
Current short-term funding models have put heightened focus on remedial measures such as filling potholes. The ALARM survey reveals that 97% of local authorities believe the existing system is inadequate, with many calling for a three to five-year budget horizon. Such long-term planning would enable authorities to effectively manage their road networks, make informed decisions, and allocate resources where they are most needed.
Inflation and climate change have further exacerbated the challenges faced by local authorities. With a 10% inflation rate, frozen budgets result in reduced purchasing power. Additionally, the effects of climate change, including increased rainfall and extreme weather events, are accelerating the deterioration of roads, making proactive maintenance even more crucial.
Data-driven approaches, such as network mapping and condition surveys, have proven effective in identifying priority areas for maintenance and repairs.
TotalEnergies emphasizes the importance of durability and sustainability in road maintenance. By focusing on longevity and incorporating new technologies, such as BIM and improved data recording, it becomes easier to convince stakeholders of the value of durable road infrastructure.
Long-term budgeting, increased investment in preventative maintenance, and data-driven approaches are key to improving road conditions and avoiding further deterioration. It is crucial for authorities, industry experts, and policymakers to work together to create a sustainable and resilient road network that supports the economy and society as a whole.
Watch the entire interview here.
