The condition of local roads has emerged as one of the dominant issues in the East Sutherland and Edderton by election, with concerns over potholes and deteriorating surfaces continuing to frustrate residents across the ward.

Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate Eric de Venny says road maintenance has been one of the issues raised most frequently during conversations with voters throughout the campaign.

After attending community council meetings and speaking with residents across the area, he said many people feel investment in local roads has failed to keep pace with growing maintenance needs.

Eric de Venny said:

“Wherever I go, residents are telling me the same thing.

“They are fed up with potholes, deteriorating roads and a lack of investment from Highland Council.

“The scale of the problem is clear.

“Almost four in every ten Highland Council roads are assessed as requiring maintenance treatment, placing the region among the worst performing road networks in Scotland.

“Highland Council has also paid out almost £580,000 in pothole compensation over the last five years, making it one of the highest amongst Scotland’s 32 councils.

“Our roads are vital for local communities, businesses, school transport and emergency services, yet many people feel they have been neglected for far too long.

“The Highlands contribute enormously to Scotland’s economy, but too often we don’t see that reflected in the investment we receive.

“It was deeply disappointing to see SNP and Independent councillors vote down Liberal Democrat calls for Highland Council to press the Scottish Government for additional roads funding.

“I understand that over £233 million of repairs are needed across the Highland road network, yet only around £20 million is allocated to their capital roads budget each year.

“That leaves communities facing years of deteriorating road surfaces, mounting maintenance backlogs and ever more potholes.

“Local people deserve representatives who will stand up and fight for the investment our communities need.”

The condition of Highland roads has become a recurring issue in communities across the region, where long distances, harsh weather and limited budgets have created significant maintenance challenges.

Support for Mr de Venny’s campaign has also come from local Liberal Democrat councillor Richard Gale, who said road improvements remain a priority for many residents.

He said:

“Residents rightly expect roads that are safe and fit for purpose.

“I’ve spent years campaigning for improvements to roads, infrastructure and road safety across East Sutherland and Edderton, but there is still much more to do.

“Eric understands the concerns local people have because he hears them every day.

“He will be a strong voice at Highland Council and will work tirelessly to secure the investment our communities deserve.”

With polling day approaching, the state of local infrastructure looks set to remain one of the key issues facing voters across East Sutherland and Edderton.