Thousands calls for changes after fatal crashes

Thousands have called for changes on the A361

Nearly 16,000 people have called for a 30mph speed limit on a Somerset road to be extended following two recent fatalities.

The A361 connects Taunton to numerous small villages on the Somerset Levels.

In the last year, there have been two deaths on the road a few miles from Taunton leading to thousands of people wanting changes to the “extremely dangerous” approach to East Lyng.

The council said it was awaiting the outcome of Avon and Somerset Constabulary’s ongoing investigation into a crash in August, but would be making some changes by the end of the financial year.

Destiny Rauh, a 27-year-old motorcyclist, died near West Lyng in February

The crash, on August 20, involved two vehicles and led to the death of a male motorist. Earlier in the year, Destiny Rauh, a 27-year-old motorcyclist died in a crash at the same location.

Amy Frend, who has lived in East Lyng for just over a year, presented her petition to the council at a meeting in Bridgwater.

She said: “This particular section of the road has a speed limit of 50mph, which is often ignored and vehicles travel in excess of this.

“It’s a busy stretch of road with agricultural vehicles and lorries passing through constantly. My house is on one side of the road and there is a housing estate opposite comprising about 15 homes [Hill View Terrace].

“As drivers we are dealing with near-misses on a daily basis, pulling out or into the junction or one of the many well-used driveways due to a camp-site and cider farm being located here.

“It is at times extremely dangerous; cars will often go to overtake as you start to slow in readiness to turn, which is just an accident waiting to happen.”

Ms Frend said that the 30mph speed limit in part of the village should be extended to protect both motorists and local pedestrians.

Councillor Richard Wilkins responded: “Following the tragic incident which recently happened on the A361 near East Lyng, we are working with the police to understand the circumstances.

“Those investigations are ongoing and the outcome, due to their extensive nature, can take some time.

“Any recommendations about engineering measures when the investigations are complete will be considered.