Safety improvements start on busy 'high-risk' road

Works on Ashbourne Road started on Thursday

Works to improve safety on a stretch of "high risk" road in Derby has started.

The project to upgrade Ashbourne Road, between Markeaton Island and Friar Gate, started on Thursday following the completion of a 12-week consultation.

Derby City Council received £475,000 from the government's Safer Roads Fund in April 2023 after the road was identified as "requiring improvement" by the Road Safety Foundation.

The authority said the works, due to be completed in 2025, would be carried out during off-peak periods "as much as possible to minimise disruption".

The planned improvements include the introduction of new infrastructure to reduce speed and upgrades to existing pedestrian crossings.

Work will also be carried out on existing crossings on side roads leading to Ashbourne Road, the council said.

The aim is to reduce collisions and improve active travel, such as walking and cycling.

Carmel Swan, the authority's cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: "We’re committed to creating a safer, greener transport network to Derby and Ashbourne Road is a key element of that.

"The improvements we’re carrying out on this busy commuter route will improve safety for countless road users and make it easier for people to choose greener alternatives.

"The people of Derby have played a key part in these improvements, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to share their views in our consultation."