England's motorways ranked worst in national survey
Transport Focus’s latest survey shows England’s motorways and major A roads with an overall satisfaction of 71%, up from 69% last year, driven by modest improvements in journey times, road surfaces and roadworks management. The results highlight stark regional variation: the M27 in Hampshire is rated the worst with only 56% satisfaction due to persistent roadworks and delays, while the M20 in Kent is rated the best at 79%. In the North West, satisfaction sits around 69%, with the M60 among the worst roads (63%) and the M56 performing strongly (78%), illustrating wide divergence within a single region. National Highways notes resurfacing work and a five-year renewal program under the Road Investment Strategy as it aims to improve conditions, though extensive roadworks continue to be a major factor for many journeys. The surveys also show some improvement in smart motorways, with satisfaction rising to 66% as roadworks can still significantly influence the overall journey experience. The overarching narrative is that while progress is being made, ongoing maintenance and roadworks remain a central challenge for UK drivers as networks age and scale-up maintenance.
Ask this story anything
How it spread
Claim check
What each side asserts, disputes — or leaves out entirely.
Analyzing the coverage…
Where do you land?
Whose framing of this story rings truest to you?
How each side headlines it
Left· 1 source
“England’s favourite and least favourite motorways revealed”The Independent UK · Jul 21, 2026
