Improving the trunk road network
Future improvements to the trunk road network
Respondents were asked to choose up to three features of trunk roads which they would most like to see improved. Nearly half (49%) prioritised improvements in the speed with which road defects such as potholes are repaired. This was followed by preferences for improvements in the general condition of road surfaces (39%), the quality of repairs (34%), and the amount of traffic congestion (30%) (Figure 6.1).
Compared to 2024, respondents were less likely to prioritise improvements to drainage of water and flooding from road surfaces (15% in 2025, compared to 22% in 2024).
Those living in the South West and South East were more likely than average to say they would like improvements in the amount of traffic congestion (35% and 37% respectively, compared to 30% overall).
Older respondents (aged 65 and above) were more likely than average to prioritise the speed with which road defects such as potholes are repaired (62%, compared to 49% overall).
Priorities for development
The priorities for improvement outlined in Figure 6.1 above were further validated by analysing the relationship between satisfaction with the different elements of trunk road management and maintenance, alongside their perceived importance (see Appendix B). Consistent with previous years, the key priorities for development were: the speed of repairs, quality of repairs, and general condition of surfaces.
Priorities for future investment
When asked whether Transport Scotland should prioritise investment in building new roads, or in maintaining existing roads to a higher standard, the majority (83%) of respondents preferred maintaining existing roads to a higher standard. In comparison to 2024, there was a slight increase in those who supported investment in building new roads (13%, compared to 10% in 2024) (Figure 6.2).
Respondents in the South West were more likely than average to prioritise maintaining existing roads (89%, compared to 83% overall), while those in the North East were more likely to prioritise building new roads (21%, compared to 13% overall) (Figure 6.3).
