Plans to improve road safety on the A361 Frome Bypass are moving forward.
Somerset Council is consulting on reducing the speed limit from 60mph to 50mph on the road, used by around 15,000 motorists a day, where five people have died in collisions over the past five years.
The proposals also include resurfacing the road, introducing central hatching to narrow lanes where possible, cutting back vegetation to improve visibility and upgrading road markings to make them more visible.
Subject to any objections being resolved, a scheme to implement the reduced speed limit would start at the same time as resurfacing work at the A361/A362 junction, currently planned from 7th to 20th May.
The works follow extensive campaigning by residents, councillors and the local MP Anna Sabine for safety measures on the road,
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Waste, said, “We are developing further plans for making this road safer with an improved road surface, and measures to reduce traffic speeds through the proposed speed limit and introduction of central hatching to reduce the road width, where feasible.
“We share the concerns of the community about the number of incidents on this stretch of road.”
The proposals follow the installation of AI cameras along the bypass last year to monitor speed, seatbelt wearing and mobile phone use.
Cllr Wilkins added, “Driver behaviour contributes to around 90 per cent of serious road collisions; we would urge all drivers – if you are getting behind the wheel of a car please act responsibly.”
MP Anna Sabine has welcomed the plans and said, “Improving safety on the A361 was the first issue I raised when elected because so many local people told me how worried they were about this stretch of road. Too many families have experienced accidents or near misses here, and action has been needed for a long time.
“Reducing the speed limit to 50mph near the junction is a sensible move that will help make this road safer. Alongside improved visibility and resurfacing works, this represents a great start in addressing the risks that drivers have faced for years.”
People have until 20th March to share their feedback on the order by emailing TROinbox@somerset.gov.uk quoting Reference No. KT04022026
