Local highways maintenance transparency report
Our highway network
Oxfordshire County Council, as the highways authority, is responsible for maintaining local roads and connecting assets, ensuring they are safe and passable for all users. This statutory duty is mandated by the Highways Act 1980, which requires the council to keep the highways in good repair and manage them effectively.
The county's highway network is extensive, comprising approximately 4,500 km of roads. This includes a mix of A, B, C, and unclassified roads, as detailed in the table below, with around 50% of these roads being rural.
| A Road | B and C roads | U roads | Total Roads | Footways | Other Public rights of way | cycleways |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 597km | 2408km | 1651km | 4656km | 3,185km | 4,266km | 351km |
The total value of Oxfordshire's highway assets is substantial, with the asset base valued at over £6 billion. This valuation reflects the significant investment required to maintain and improve the infrastructure, ensuring it meets the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.
Oxfordshire County Council's approach to highway maintenance is strategic and comprehensive, focusing on long-term planning and efficient resource allocation. The council employs a variety of strategies to manage the highway network, including regular inspections, timely repairs, and preventive maintenance. These efforts are guided by key documents such as the Highway Infrastructure Asset Maintenance Approach and the Highways Asset Management Policy, which provide a framework for making informed decisions about the maintenance and improvement of highway assets.
Overall, Oxfordshire County Council's commitment to maintaining its highways ensures that local roads and connecting assets are well-managed, supporting the county's economic, social, and environmental wellbeing. This comprehensive strategy not only meets statutory requirements but also aims to enhance the quality of life for all who use the county's transport network.
Oxfordshire is responsible for maintaining a variety of assets that extend beyond the commonly recognised carriageways, cycleways, footways and verges. The county owns and maintains an array of infrastructure that supports its transportation network.
Among these assets, Oxfordshire is responsible for 103 pedestrian and cycle bridges, 731 vehicular bridges, and 318 culverts, ensuring safe passage over various terrains and waterways. The region also includes 30 underpasses and approximately 3,000 countryside bridges, further enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
Lighting and electrical assets form a significant portion of Oxfordshire’s highways infrastructure, with 67,717 units such as streetlights, illuminated signs, and bollards contributing to safety and navigation. Additionally, there are 435 traffic signal sites at critical junctions and pedestrian crossings, facilitating smooth and orderly traffic flow.
The county also manages 1,443 kilometres of bridleways and byways, complementing the extensive network of footpaths and cycleways. These routes offer alternative paths for pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians, providing residents and visitors alike access to the countryside
Furthermore, Oxfordshire oversees 2,155 crossings of various types, enhancing pedestrian safety across busy roads. The infrastructure includes 7,350 gates, 3,465 stiles, and 5,873 finger posts, ensuring the accessibility and usability of pathways and trails across the region.
This vast and diverse collection of assets highlights Oxfordshire's commitment to maintaining a robust and efficient highway system that meets the needs of its community.
It is noteworthy that there are many assets, running on, adjacent or connecting to Oxfordshire's highways network, which are not under county's responsibility to maintain, including but not limited to; motorways and trunk roads, railway bridges and crossings, third party owned embankments and structures, waterways and utility apparatus.
Highways maintenance spending figures
Oxfordshire's highways maintenance funding is crucial for keeping our networks and assets safe, reliable, and efficient. The funding is split into two main categories: capital and revenue spend. Understanding the difference between these two types of expenditures is essential for appreciating how resources are allocated and utilised across the county.
| Year | Capital allocated by DfT (£,000s) | Capital spend (£,000s) | Revenue spend (£,000s) | Estimate of % spent on preventative maintenance | Estimate of % spent on reactive maintenance* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025/26 (projected) | £33,483 | £48,845 | £20,398 | 71% | 7% |
| 2024/25 | £20,846 | £43,055 | £19,454 | 69% | 7% |
| 2023/24 | £26,874 | £33,783 | £20,879 | 62% | 6% |
| 2022/23 | £20,846 | £30,200 | £23,589 | 56% | 5% |
| 2021/22 | £27,192 | £42,773 | £19,892 | 68% | 4% |
| 2020/21 | £27,315 | £46,300 | £22,472 | 67% | 4% |
*Sum total of capital and reactive spend does not equal 100%, as reactive maintenance which is a revenue expenditure, does not include routine maintenance and operational costs such as staffing, as detailed below.
Capital and Revenue Spend
Capital spend, which is funded through grants from the Department for Transport, council reserves and borrowing, refers to the investment in the long-term improvement and renewal of highways infrastructure. This includes maintenance activities that extend or renew the lifespan of an asset.
Revenue spend, which is funded through council tax, covers the day-to-day operational activities needed to keep a highways asset safe and in good condition. This includes repairing safety defects and routine maintenance tasks such as gulley cleaning, minor repairs, and the operational costs of running the highways maintenance services.
Capital Maintenance Activities
Capital maintenance encompasses various activities aimed at significantly prolonging the service life of our roads and highways assets, which fall under the banner of “Preventative Maintenance”. These activities include:
- Surface dressing: involves applying a protective layer to the road surface, which helps seal the road from water ingress and improves skidding resistance. This process can significantly extend the life of the road by up to ten years. Surface dressing is typically applied to around 100 miles of road each year, with approximately 40% of these roads being treated. The primary purpose of surface dressing is to prevent road deterioration and reduce overall maintenance costs by addressing issues before they lead to structural failure.
- Resurfacing: Replacing the deteriorated top one or two layers of road or laying a new surface layer over the existing road to restore its condition and improve ride quality.
- Reconstruction: Completely rebuilding sections of the road that have deteriorated beyond repair.
- Structural Repairs: Strengthening or replacing key structural elements of the road to ensure its stability and durability.
Reactive Maintenance
Reactive maintenance focuses on addressing issues as they arise, such as pothole repairs. Pothole repair is a significant part of our reactive maintenance efforts, with about 60% of this expenditure dedicated to filling potholes. Over the past five years, we have filled an estimated 30,000 potholes each year, ensuring our roads remain safe and accessible.
| 2021/22 | 2022/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32,281 | 28,373 | 23,651 | 36,059 | 37,042 |
Determining the Split Between Preventative and Reactive Maintenance
The balance between preventative and reactive maintenance is determined by assessing the condition of the road network and prioritizing activities that offer the best long-term value. Our goal is to increase the proportion of spend on preventative maintenance, as this is more cost-effective and sustainable in the long run. By investing more in preventative measures, we can reduce the frequency and severity of reactive repairs, ultimately leading to a more reliable and efficient road network.
Oxfordshire's highways maintenance expenditure is carefully managed to ensure a balanced approach between maintaining and improving our infrastructure and safety. By strategically allocating resources to both capital and revenue spends, and focusing on preventative maintenance, we aim to provide a safe and durable road network for all users.
Condition of local roads
Highway inventory and condition data is managed by the various Highways Teams, including but not limited to; carriageway, road markings, highway drainage, footways, streetlighting, traffic signals, trees, signage and structures information.
This data is either collected in-house or from commissioned external contractors. The data obtained on the condition of the carriageways and footways once captured is held centrally on the Pavement Management System (PMS), which is used to
- Develop a list of highway assets which require maintenance, leading to a scheme prioritisation list.
- Report and share Oxfordshire's latest asset condition
- Develop the next years survey schedule
For A, B and C Road condition assessments on the local classified road network in England are currently made predominantly using Surface Condition Assessment for the National Network of Roads (SCANNER) laser-based technology.
A number of parameters measured in these surveys are used to produce a road condition indicator, which is categorised into three condition categories:
- Green: No further investigation or treatment required
- Amber: Maintenance may be required soon
- Red: Should be considered for maintenance
U Roads are surveyed using a different methodology where an accessor records condition while being driven, this type of survey is known as a Coarse Visual Inspection (CVI). The accessor records a number of different types of deterioration, which are then combined to give a single "Red" (length to be considered for maintenance) percentage.
Our current surveys are in line with national guidance and best practice, refer to Road condition statistics: data tables (RDC), for more information about road condition reporting, as well as historical and benchmarking data.
Principal A Road Survey Data
We survey the entire A road length, half the carriageway width (50%), in one direction each year, with the other half of the carriageway done the following year, making a 2-year cycle for the total coverage. The two-year average result is then calculated into a single % measure which is reported to the DfT annually.
| Year | Red | Amber | Green |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 4% | 28% | 68% |
| 2021 | 4% | 27% | 69% |
| 2022 | 5% | 27% | 68% |
| 2023 | 5% | 29% | 66% |
| 2024 | 5% | 30% | 65% |
Non-Principal B and C Road Survey Data
For B roads, we survey the entire length, half the carriageway width (50%) in one direction each year, with the other half of the carriageway done the following year, making a 2-year cycle for the total coverage. However C roads are surveyed over 3 years, in one direction but across the entire width, as C roads are narrower than the A and B Road network. The average condition scores are combined for B and C Roads, over the 3 years into a single % measure which is reported to the DfT annually.
| Year | Red | Amber | Green |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 6% | 31% | 63% |
| 2021 | 6% | 31% | 63% |
| 2022 | 7% | 31% | 62% |
| 2023 | 6% | 32% | 62% |
| 2024 | 8% | 31% | 61% |
Unclassified Road (U Roads) Survey Data
U roads are surveyed over 4 years, in one direction but across the entire width, as they are narrower than the A and B Road network. The average condition scores over the 4-year period, for the entire network length are reported as a single % measure which is reported to the DfT annually.
| Year | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 23% |
| 2021 | 23% |
| 2022 | 24% |
| 2023 | 22% |
| 2024 | 19% |
From 2026/27 a new methodology will be used based on the BSI PAS2161 standard. Local Highway Authorities will be required to use a supplier that has been accredited against PAS2161. This new standard will categorise roads into five categories instead of three to help government gain a more detailed understanding of road condition in England. For further details refer to Road condition monitoring standard – PAS 2161 - GOV.UK.
Plans
Overall strategy
Oxfordshire County Council employs a data-driven and risk-based approach to highways maintenance and asset management, ensuring the best value for residents. This strategy involves using comprehensive data analysis to prioritise maintenance activities based on risk and condition assessments. By focusing on the most critical areas, the council can effectively allocate resources and address issues before they escalate.
The council's approach includes a whole-life cost methodology, which evaluates the long-term costs and benefits of different maintenance treatments. This ensures that financial decisions are made with a view to minimising the total cost of ownership over the asset's lifespan. By considering factors such as durability, maintenance frequency, and potential future costs, the council can select the most cost-effective solutions.
Additionally, the council's asset management strategy is aligned with broader goals, such as sustainability and improved service delivery. This includes fostering long-term relationships with contractors to encourage innovation and sustainability in maintenance practices. The council's Highway Asset Management Policy, Strategy, and Plan support these objectives by promoting sustainable transport options and reducing the carbon footprint of maintenance activities.
Overall, Oxfordshire's approach to highways maintenance and asset management is designed to deliver the best value to residents by making informed, strategic decisions that balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
A guide to how Oxfordshire manages and maintains the highways asset, is set out in 2022-2027 Highway Infrastructure Asset Maintenance Approach.
Delivering Best Practice and Innovation
Oxfordshire County Council is committed to following best practices and delivering innovation and efficiency in highways maintenance and asset management.
As a member and chair of various Highways Innovation, Benchmarking, and Asset Management groups, including the Local Council Roads Innovation Group, Institute of Highways Engineers, and National Highways & Transport Network, Oxfordshire actively engages in benchmarking and sharing best practices. This membership enables officers to assess performance alongside peers, establish benchmarks for excellence, and identify opportunities for learning and improvement.
Through these groups, Oxfordshire identifies and adopts new technologies that deliver best value and improve efficiency. For example, the council works closely with its supply chain to trial new materials in highways maintenance. One notable innovation is the trial of graphene asphalt, which has been successfully used to enhance the durability of road surfaces.
By leveraging these collaborative platforms, Oxfordshire ensures that its highways maintenance and asset management strategies are informed by the latest industry standards and innovations. This approach not only improves the quality and sustainability of the county's infrastructure but also ensures that residents receive the best possible value from public investments.
Oxfordshire and their maintenance contractor MGroup have established an Innovation Delivery Group. The group's main aim is to take forward the innovation process, using available funds to pump-prime innovations which will enable the development and implementation of new ideas within the highways maintenance contract.
Specific plans for 2025/26
For the 2025-26 financial year Oxfordshire County Council has made a significant commitment to maintaining and improving the county's infrastructure, with a comprehensive plan that addresses various aspects of highway maintenance, road safety, and drainage systems.
The council has allocated nearly £40 million for highway capital maintenance, which includes, but not limited to;
- Approximately 136 miles of road preventative measures to extend the life of the road network.
- Approximately 25 miles of footways surface and preventative measures to extend the life of the road network.
- The repair and strengthening of 15 bridges and structures
This substantial investment aims to ensure that Oxfordshire’s highways do not deteriorate further and reduces the need for frequent repairs and enhancing the overall driving experience for residents and visitors alike.
The council has also committed in the region of £3.8M in highways defect repair, which we estimate will repair 56,000 defects, of which 41,000 are potholes.
By addressing potholes promptly, the council aims to improve road conditions and reduce the frequency of repairs, ultimately saving money and resources in the long run.
In addition to road maintenance, the council has committed £2.6 million to clean and empty every highway drainage gully in Oxfordshire. This enhanced programme, which began in Wheatley, aims to clean nearly 145,000 highway drains, gullies, manholes, and catchpits by the end of March 2026. An efficient highways drainage system is key to preventing flooding, where extreme weather events are becoming more common and will slow road deterioration.
The council has allocated £16.24 million for repairing bridges at risk of structural failure or closure, combined with preventative maintenance over a two-year period. This investment ensures that bridges remain safe and functional, preventing disruptions to transportation and commerce.
Road safety is also a top priority for the council, with £4 million earmarked for road safety measures. This funding will support a programme of improvements to accessibility, connectivity, and overall road safety. By enhancing road safety, the council aims to reduce accidents and create a safer environment for all road users.
These investments reflect Oxfordshire County Council's commitment to maintaining and improving the county's infrastructure, ensuring safety, and delivering value to residents. Through careful planning and substantial financial commitment, the council is working to create a more reliable and efficient transportation network for the future.
Streetworks
Oxfordshire County Council is actively working to minimise disruption caused by streetworks and ensure they are planned and coordinated efficiently and effectively.
Oxfordshire’s Network Management Plan 2023-2028, details several actions it is taking to achieve this goal, namely:
- Permit Scheme: The Oxfordshire Permit Scheme requires utilities and other companies to obtain permits before carrying out streetworks. This scheme encourages better planning and coordination, reducing the impact on traffic and local communities.
- Coordination and Collaboration: The council collaborates with various stakeholders, including utility companies, to coordinate streetworks. This involves regular meetings and sharing information to avoid conflicts and ensure that works are carried out in a timely manner
- Advanced Planning: The council uses advanced planning tools and techniques to schedule streetworks during periods of low traffic to minimise disruption. This includes night-time and off-peak working hours.
- Public Communication: Oxfordshire County Council keeps the public informed about upcoming streetworks through its website and other communication channels. This includes providing details about the nature of the works, expected duration, and any potential disruptions.
- Financial Penalties: To discourage unnecessary road closures and delays, the council imposes financial penalties on companies that fail to complete their works within the agreed timeframe.
- Monitoring and Review: The council continuously monitors the impact of streetworks and reviews its policies and procedures to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This includes gathering feedback from the public and other stakeholders.
These measures are part of a comprehensive approach to managing the highway network, ensuring that streetworks are carried out with minimal disruption to residents and businesses in Oxfordshire
Climate change, resilience and adaptation
Oxfordshire is actively working to mitigate climate change effects by enhancing resilience for communities and businesses, prioritizing the most vulnerable. Efforts include climate vulnerability assessments, flood risk management, and the adoption of a comprehensive Climate Change Adaptation Plan 2025-2030.
Highway maintenance in Oxfordshire contributes significantly to carbon emissions. The county has implemented innovative techniques to reduce these emissions, such as using cold recycling for road resurfacing. This method has saved an estimated 75 tonnes of carbon during a recent programme, equivalent to 92 flights from London to New York. Oxfordshire's Carbon Management Plan 2022-30 outlines the approach to reducing emissions from highway assets, including streetlighting, traffic signals, and signage.
Decarbonising Highway Maintenance Operations
Oxfordshire County Council and its Highways Maintenance supply chain are committed to reducing carbon emissions in their maintenance operations. Oxfordshire and its main highway maintenance contractor, MGroup, are currently developing a Carbon Reduction Plan, specifically for highways maintenance and operations activities, with a particular focus on:
- Adopting sustainable practices: They are integrating environmentally friendly methods and materials in their maintenance activities to minimise carbon footprint.
- Utilising renewable energy sources: Efforts are being made to transition to renewable energy sources for powering maintenance equipment and facilities.
- Implementing energy-efficient technologies: The use of advanced technologies that consume less energy is being promoted to reduce overall emissions.
The council's Carbon Management Plan includes a risk register to capture and manage programme risks, ensuring that all potential climate-related risks are identified and mitigated. Highway maintenance is developing its own strategies to adapt to the anticipated impacts of climate change, ensuring the network remains robust.
Highways and Operations are investing in new materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions and other climate-related challenges. These efforts are part of a broader policy framework aimed at promoting sustainability and resilience in Oxfordshire's maintenance operations and network management.
Oxfordshire has actively participated in the Future Highways Research Group (FHRG) Carbon Analyser, which has now been replaced by the Carbon Leadership Programme. This programme provides a standardised method for calculating carbon emissions from local road maintenance and construction activities and is promoted and endorsed by the Department for Transport.
Additional information on plans
For an overview about how Oxfordshire maintains its highways network, which includes an explanation about our prioritisation process for roadworks, the maintenance of road features like footpaths and street lights, and how residents can report issues. please visit Oxfordshire County Council - How we maintain our roads.
For details on Oxfordshire County Council's asset maintenance approach for highway maintenance which sets out ours policies, strategies and plans for maintaining roads, footpaths, bridges, and drainage systems, ensuring safety and longevity through data-driven and risk-based decision-making. Please visit Oxfordshire County Council - Asset Maintenance Approach.
For more information about some of our key highways maintenance programmes for 2025-2026, including maps of proposed works in your areas, please visit Planned, routine and reactive road maintenance information.
To report a pothole, or any highways maintenance issue, please visit Find and report road or street problems (fixmystreet)