Local MPs are taking action following the most recent fatal crash on the A46.
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston and Tewkesbury MP Laurence Robertson have come together to write a letter to the chief executive of National Highways Nick Harris.
This comes following the most recent fatal crash in which a man in his 50s was killed following a two-vehicle crash at the junction with Cheltenham Road and Aston Somerville on November 10.
Now, the trio of MPs are hoping to see action taken to prevent future accidents on the stretch of A46 between Tewksbury and Evesham.
Mrs Baldwin said: “The A46 has been a matter of increasing concern for some years with communities sharing their concerns with me about speeding and the increasing incidence of accidents.
“There is a plan under development to enhance the A46 but I was keen that this should go hand-in-hand with improved road safety, especially between the Teddington Hands roundabout and Evesham.
“I am planning to talk to local councillors to discuss this further, but I am reassured that the Government is already looking into the concerns raised by me and my neighbouring MPs.
“The road is a vital strategic route, but it must be kept safe, and with major roadworks currently underway, I would like National Highways to look closely at the issues raised by local people and come back with a definitive plan of action.”
The fatal crash last month saw a petition to increase road safety on the A46 receive a surge in signatures.
Around 1,500 people added their name in the 24 hours following the incident and as of midday on Wednesday, December 1, 5,890 people have signed the petition.
The group of MPs are hoping to see National Highways conduct a review of road safety and speeding in the area whilst the Department for Transport has committed to assessing speed limits along the road.
Transport minister Trudy Harrison confirmed that safety studies and speed surveys are taking place, with a report due in Spring, while statistics from the DfT have shown that in the five years from 2016 to 2020 there was 35 fatal crashes on the A46 between Teddington Hands roundabout and Evesham.
Mr Huddleston said: "The A46 is a vital transport link for my constituents, and I am very pleased that there is now a real intention to enhance and upgrade the road.
“However, a number of recent road safety incidents have also highlighted that National Highways may need to look closer at this section of road to see whether the safety measures that are currently in place remain appropriate in light of recent accidents."
National Highways programme development manager, Ian Doust, said: “We take safety extremely seriously and fully understand the concerns raised.
“We work closely with police partners to understand the causes of incidents.
“We’re currently monitoring the A46 to assess any necessary steps which can make it safer for motorists.”
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