Motorway safety review call after spate of crashes

Recent accidents include the death of a teenager near Burnley

A motorway's safety record must be urgently reviewed following a string of fatal crashes, a councillor said.

Noordad Aziz, deputy leader of Labour-run Hyndburn Council, called for the M65 in East Lancashire's accident rate to be examined, with the aim of improving it.

Rather than focussing solely on the stretch in his borough - between junctions five and eight - Mr Aziz wants the review to examine whole motorway, including the provision of lighting.

His call has been backed by the council's leader of the opposition, Conservative Zak Khan.

Mr Aziz said he wanted the council to ask Highways England and Lancashire County Council for "an urgent review of the general safety of the M65".

He said: "Given the frequency of recent accidents, including those occurring in daylight and at night, it is essential to assess this stretch for potential safety improvements, including but not limited to lighting.

"This review should aim to enhance overall road safety, reduce accident risks, and ensure the well-being of all road users."