Drivers will see nearly all roadworks lifted across England’s major roads this Easter, as officials scramble to keep traffic moving during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
National Highways has confirmed that around 1,500 miles of roadworks will be removed between Thursday, April 2 and Monday, April 6, leaving 98 per cent of motorways and key A-roads clear for drivers.
The move is designed to cut congestion and support millions of people expected to travel over the bank holiday weekend.
But the announcement comes as motorists are also being warned about a sharp rise in breakdowns, with drivers urged to carry out simple vehicle checks before setting off.
New figures show breakdowns on England’s strategic road network have surged by 25.6 per cent between 2022 and 2025.
During the spring period from March to May last year, 71,254 incidents were recorded, compared with 56,702 three years earlier.
National Highways explained that many of these breakdowns could have been avoided with basic maintenance.
Experts said they believe the increase may be partly due to an ageing car fleet, as well as drivers putting off repairs because of the cost-of-living crisis. Drivers in London and the South East appear to be particularly affected.
National Highways warned that car breakdowns surged by 25.6 per cent between 2022 and 2025
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GETTY/PA
A survey found that 66 per cent of motorists in the region have experienced a breakdown on a motorway or major A-road, significantly higher than the UK average of 53 per cent.
Of those, 47 per cent said the issue could have been prevented with simple checks. Nationally, just 29 per cent said the same.
The survey of more than 3,200 drivers also found that nearly one in five, 17 per cent, admit they rarely or never carry out safety checks before travelling.
Colin Stevenson, Road Safety Information Lead at National Highways, said: “In London and the South East, 66 per cent of people say they’ve experienced a breakdown on a major road, and 47 per cent say it could have been avoided.”
He added: “A few simple checks can help to prevent many of the breakdowns we see each year and help drivers avoid unexpected delays, cost and stress.”
The agency will remove 1,500 miles of roadworks
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PAWith millions preparing to travel, officials have now begun urging drivers to take responsibility for their vehicles and safety before heading out.
Mr Stevenson said: “Millions of people will be hitting the roads over Easter, and we want everyone to have a safe and smooth journey.
“Our teams work around the clock to keep motorways and major A-roads moving, and these small steps from drivers can make a big difference.”
Drivers have also been encouraged to follow National Highways’ “T.R.I.P.” guidance for safer journeys. This includes topping up fuel or electric charge, as well as checking oil and screen wash levels before setting off.
National Highways will clear roadworks over the Easter break
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PAMotorists should also rest properly, taking at least a 15-minute break every two hours and ensuring they are well rested before driving.
Drivers are also advised to plan routes in advance, keep an eye on the weather and pack essentials in case of delays. The most common causes of breakdowns include tyre issues, running out of fuel and engines overheating.
Breakdowns can be costly and stressful. Drivers reported average delays of more than two hours following an incident. Around 42 per cent said the experience was stressful, while 34 per cent reported feeling anxious or frustrated.
For those without breakdown cover, costs can quickly mount, with roadside assistance averaging £229, towing £257 and onward travel around £346.
Under the Highway Code, motorists are required to make sure their vehicle is safe and roadworthy before every journey.