Some drivers mock Coventry council's top pothole rating

IT'S fair to say that readers are somewhat sceptical to hear the news that Coventry has been named one of the top councils in the country for tackling potholes, according to a new online tool that lets the public see how well councils repair their roads.

- By CLAIRE ELLIOTT News Reporter

The city is among a small number rated green under a traffic light system, meaning it meets best practice standards. This includes long term preventative work, maintaining road conditions and investing heavily in local road improvements.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said drivers have paid the price for years as roads deteriorated, often footing the bill for damage caused by potholes. She said the government has increased funding in the West Midlands to £800 million and, for the first time, is allowing the public to see how effectively councils are using that money to improve local roads.

Other Midlands councils rated green include Sandwell and Worcestershire. Warwickshire, Birmingham and Solihull received amber ratings, while Leicestershire, West Northamptonshire and Derbyshire were rated red.