Gloucestershire’s roads are once again at the center of a heated debate as county leaders prepare to secure a new £192 million resurfacing contract aimed at tackling widespread road damage. The Liberal Democrat-led Gloucestershire County Council has announced plans to launch a search for a specialist contractor to oversee major carriageway resurfacing works across the county starting April 2026.
The current contract with Tarmac, responsible for road repairs and resurfacing, is set to expire on March 31, 2026. The incoming eight-year agreement, initially lasting four years with the option for a further extension contingent on performance, is designed to deliver long-term improvement and higher standards for the county’s crumbling road network.
County Highways cabinet member Joe Harris (LD, Cirencester Park) did not hold back in criticizing the previous Conservative administration, accusing them of neglect that has contributed to Gloucestershire’s roads being described as “bombed” and riddled with potholes. Harris emphasized, “People in Gloucestershire are rightly fed up with potholes, poor road surfaces and quick fixes that don’t last. We’re determined to make Gloucestershire’s roads great again.”
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However, former council leader Stephen Davies (C, Hardwicke and Severn) rejected these claims, labeling them as “Lib Dem gloss and nonsense.” Davies defended the Conservative record, highlighting efforts such as doubling pothole repairs, introducing advanced equipment, and launching the ‘Fix My Streets’ reporting service. He added, “We were honest about the financial challenges and never promised a quick fix, unlike the Liberal Democrats.”
Beyond road repairs, the council is integrating environmental considerations into the new contract. Potential bidders must demonstrate commitments to emission reductions, use of greener materials, and support for local job creation and apprenticeships. This aligns with Gloucestershire’s broader climate goals to protect its natural landscape.
Despite ongoing government funding cuts impacting council finances, the administration is pushing for more funds to extend repair programs. Harris stated, “This decision shows we’re serious about making the most of the money we have and moving forward with fixing our roads properly.”
The conflict between political parties sets the stage for a key test once the new budget is published, which will reveal if the Liberal Democrats maintain investment at the levels achieved by their Conservative predecessors, approximately £100 million.
Procurement for the new contract will commence in November 2025, with a contractor expected to begin work by April 2026, marking a pivotal step in addressing Gloucestershire’s long-standing road issues.