One part of the Black Country is 'leading the way' when it comes to filling potholes - find out which area gets 'green light' for repairs

Sandwell was rated green in the new 'traffic light' rating system published by the Government ahead of National Pothole Day on January 15.

The new ratings, the first of their kind, grade local authorities in England red, amber or green based on current road condition and how effectively they are spending their share of £30 million Government funding to fix potholes and invest in long-term measures to maintain roads.

Sandwell was rated green as it was able to demonstrate the council was following best practice such as investing in more long-term, preventative measures rather than just patching up potholes, while also maintaining good road conditions and investing significantly in improving local roads.

Almost every authority in the West Midlands bar Sandwell, Coventry and Worcestershire was rated amber.

Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, leader of Sandwell Council, said: “We are proud that Sandwell is recognised nationally for the outstanding condition of its roads being the second-biggest borough within the West Midlands region. 

"Not only are we one of the top performers in the country for overall road condition, but we’re also leading the way in the speed, quality and reliability of our pothole repairs. 

"We are very pleased to achieve a green rating on the new interactive map. 

"This achievement reflects years of consistent investment, smart planning and a commitment to doing things the right way for our residents, businesses and everyone using Sandwell’s roads. 

"We deliver all of this while remaining highly efficient and keeping the cost per mile exceptionally low. 

"Through the use of innovative technology, data-led maintenance and forward-thinking repair methods, we’re able to make every pound go further. 

"Well-maintained roads and pavements are important for people’s safety, for their health by encouraging cycling and walking, and for connecting residents to jobs, education and local services. 

"Our approach to road maintenance exemplifies our commitment to be a caring council that get things done on the issues that matter to our residents.”

Labour's Local Roads Minister Simon Lightwood is due to visit Sandwell this week to mark National Pothole Day (January 15) and see first-hand how the borough is tackling preventative maintenance.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “For too long, drivers in the West Midlands have paid the price because our roads were left to deteriorate. 

"I have heard time and again their frustration on footing the bill because they hit a pothole, money they should never have to spend in the first place.  

“We’ve put our money where our mouth is, increasing the funding in the West Midlands with £800 million to fix roads and given them the long-term certainty they have been asking for. 

"Now it’s over to them to spend the money wisely, and for the first time we are making sure the public can see how well local highway authorities are doing in delivering the improvements they want to see in their local area.

“This Government’s record investment will save drivers money on repairs, make roads safer and help restore pride in our communities.”