DEVON has been named the UK’s pothole capital, with more road craters than anywhere else in the country over the past three years.

According to the newly released UK Pothole Index 2025, compiled by car finance provider First Response Finance, Devon County Council has logged a staggering 160,374 potholes since 2022 – more than any other local authority in Britain.

And the problem isn’t going away.

The data shows pothole numbers in Devon have skyrocketed by 160 per cent in the past three years, despite the council having one of the largest road repair budgets in the country.

Devon was allocated £8.8 million for road repairs in 2025/26, placing it fourth nationally in terms of budget size.

But even with that level of funding, the county’s roads continue to deteriorate.

In the first half of 2025 alone, Devon recorded 25,408 new potholes, putting it in the top three worst-hit areas this year behind only Lincolnshire and Kent.

Jonathan Such, motoring expert at First Response Finance, said: ‘The numbers show how much of an issue potholes are in Devon.

‘Over a quarter of Brits believe potholes in their area are never fixed, and the data backs this up.

‘Only ten percent of councils have shown consistent improvement, while 26 per cent have seen pothole numbers rise year on year.

‘Maintaining roads isn’t just about comfort, it’s about safety.

‘Poor road conditions can lead to tyre damage, suspension issues, and even accidents.

‘That’s why it’s vital for councils to prioritise infrastructure and for drivers to stay informed’.