Speed limit cut at accident blackspot

After 12 months, a decision will be made on whether the "experimental" move will become permanent, the council said

An accident blackspot in Herefordshire will see its speed limit cut from 60mph to 40mph on a trial basis.

The A465/B4348 staggered crossroads at Locks Garage, southwest of Hereford, will have the new limit in place for at least a year, Herefordshire Council said.

Once the 12 months are over, a decision will be made on whether the "experimental" move will become permanent or not.

The council said despite trying numerous low-cost safety interventions to help influence driver behaviours, the junction was "one of the most prolific road traffic collision sites on the county road network over many years".

A petition by a local resident to limit speeds at the junction has gained 775 signatures since July.

However, records show there were nine vehicle collisions that caused injury - including one fatality - between January 2020 and May this year.

A consultation carried out into the plans received no objections.

The council said it would "closely'' monitor the effectiveness of the new measures.

A total of £7,000 will be spent on implementing the new limit, including the now-completed consultation.