The cost of motoring shows no sign of dropping, even when drivers seek out the cheapest petrol, the most efficient cars and the most competitive annual breakdown cover. And things are made no better by many a driver's mortal enemy: the pothole.

Potholes, whilst not the most glamorous subject, nevertheless preoccupy many motorists, not least because they increase wear and tear on their vehicles – sometimes with the emphasis being on 'tear'.

Unfortunately, things are not going to improve any time soon, thanks to reduced funding for the bodies that fix potholes. While the Department for Transport (DfT) will be maintained with a stable level of funding over the coming years, grants from the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) are set to fall by 28% in real terms up to 2014/15, according to a recent report from the National Audit Office.

Local Authorities, the report says, have seen their unrestricted spending fall substantially, largely due to the costs they must pay to local bus companies for statutory concessionary fares – which includes free travel for over 60s.

Many local authorities have been compelled to prioritise their spending, a process which in many cases is likely to relegate the mending of potholes, unless they are especially large.

The NAO report pointed out: "Reduced overall funding for local authorities risks worsening highway quality."

The result of potholed roads is likely to increase the cost of motoring and harm local economies as travel will take longer and create more maintenance costs for businesses. Some will question the logic behind cuts which will only slow the country's economic recovery.