Search for new road safety commissioner to begin

Protesters gathered in Birmingham in July after a string of road deaths in summer

Recruitment for a new commissioner is set to begin in the wake of multiple road deaths in the West Midlands this year.

The Road Safety Commissioner will report directly to a transport taskforce which is being set up.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker confirmed the scope for the role was currently being finalised ahead of the job being advertised.

A separate active travel, walking and cycling commissioner will also be appointed.

Protesters gathered in Birmingham in July, calling for a state of emergency on the roads.

Mr Parker told a West Midlands Combined Authority Joint Scrutiny and Overview Committee on Monday that the person would receive a "small honorarium" instead of a salary.

He added the role would have “real purpose and meaning” in the decision-making process in a way it hasn’t previously.

Mr Parker said: “We’ve considered this role very, very closely because of its importance and also you will be aware of some of the awful, tragic events that have taken place on the streets of the West Midlands and particularly in this city.

“So we’re looking to create a role that has real impact on decision-making and policy."

Mr Parker previously said investment could include more speed cameras in accident blackspots, highlighting fast driving as an issue in the region.

He said it was a “tragedy” that so many lives were lost on the roads and said it “cannot go on”.

“This is an issue that is blighting our region which is why immediate and unwavering focus is needed,” he said.

“We expect the first taskforce meeting will take place early next year and I will expect the active travel and cycling commissioner to be at that first meeting.”