Bitumen consumption in the UK has been declining due to several interrelated factors:
1. Reduced Government Funding for Road Construction and Maintenance: Over recent years, there has been a notable decrease in government investment allocated to road infrastructure projects. This reduction in funding has led to fewer road construction and maintenance activities, directly impacting the demand for bitumen. For instance, in 2023, UK bitumen consumption dropped to 1.54 million tonnes, marking the lowest level since 2016. This is a significant decrease from 1.89 million tonnes consumed in 2021.
2. Escalating Bitumen Costs: The rising costs associated with bitumen have further contributed to its decreased consumption. Higher prices can deter procurement and utilization, especially when budget constraints are present. In 2021, the average UK delivered bitumen truck price was approximately £372 per tonne, which increased to £502 per tonne in 2022. Although there was a slight decrease to £496 per tonne in 2023, the elevated costs have continued to influence consumption patterns.
3. Decline in Preventative Maintenance Practices: There has been a reduction in the application of preventative maintenance treatments, such as surface dressing, by local highway authorities. This decline has led to deteriorating road conditions and an increase in potholes. The Road Emulsion Association (REA) reported that in 2023, the UK saw the lowest amount of bitumen emulsion sold since records began in 1978. Although there was a slight recovery in 2024, with a 9% increase in surface dressing volumes, the levels remain significantly below those seen in the years up to 2012.
These factors collectively illustrate the challenges faced by the UK’s road infrastructure sector, highlighting the need for strategic investment and planning to address the declining trend in bitumen consumption and its implications on road quality.