A REPORT from the AA has revealed that Fife is the worst area in Scotland for potholes.

Ranked fifth overall in the UK, the Kingdom has had almost 60,000 of the road defects reported between April 2018 to June 2021.

The survey included figures from 51 local authorities across the UK. More than 1.5 million potholes were reported and the total is likely to be higher, with many going unreported. 

And Fife was the pothole capital of Scotland with 57,051. During this time period the council filled 55,617 of them.

Northumberland had the highest number of craters, they had 180,993, more than three times the amount in the Kingdom.

The only other Scottish council area in the top 10 was Glasgow, with 38,100 reported over the three-year period.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, said: “Potholes are a frustration to all drivers and are a blight on our roads.

“While they are annoying for car drivers, potholes can be fatal to those on two wheels.

"As the government seeks to encourage more active travel, walking out to a moon-like surface won’t install confidence to would-be cyclists.

“For too long, both central and local governments blame each other for the lack of funding in maintaining our road surfaces. It’s time both got round the table and heavily invested in smoother, safer streets.”

Potholes can cause damage to vehicles - if you hit one you might be entitled to claim compensation due to pothole damage from the council.

However, compensation is only available for potholes where it was reported and not fixed within the council’s set timescales or they decided it could be repaired at a later date.

The AA report said that out of the 1,160 pothole damage claims made in Fife over this three year time period, only 122 were successful.

In May, the Press reported that, since the start of 2022, more than 1,100 potholes were repaired. However, residents have been vocal that repairs aren't getting done quickly enough in the city.

To report a pothole, get in touch with Fife Council on 03451 550011 from Monday to Friday between 8am to 6pm or on 03451 550099 for out of hours.