Danger crossroads 40mph speed limit in force

The Locks Garage junction is a staggered crossroads

The speed limit has been lowered at a dangerous crossroads following safety fears from residents and businesses.

Herefordshire Council said the speed limit on the A465 at the Locks Garage crossroads has been lowered from 60mph to 40mph in an 18-month trial.

Last month, councillors said the new limit would be in place for at least a year, before a decision is made on whether it becomes permanent.

Councillor Barry Durkin said: "Results will be monitored to assess whether this action improves highway safety, or whether we need to introduce further measures."

He said any further actions would be considered in conjunction with the community.

In October, the council said that despite trying numerous low-cost safety interventions, the junction was "one of the most prolific road traffic collision sites on the county road network".

A petition to limit speeds at the junction had gained 775 signatures between July and October.

Records showed there were nine crashes that led to people being injured – including one death – between January 2020 and May this year.