A49 (Hansard, 11 December 2002)

§ Mr. Jamieson

I have asked the Chief Executive of the Highways Agency, Tim Matthews, to write to the hon. Member.

Letter from T. Matthews to Mr. Paul Marsden, dated 11 December 2002: I have been asked by the Transport Minister, David Jamieson, to reply to your recent question about extending the speed limit south of Bayston Hill on the A49 Trunk Road. There are a number of criteria that are used when deciding an appropriate speed limit, including the nature of the road and its surroundings, existing traffic speeds and the accident rate. The speed limit should appear reasonable to most drivers and have the support of the police, who have responsibility for enforcement. The 30 mph speed limit through Bayston Hill was introduced in 1997 as part of a traffic calming scheme through the village. The length south of Bayston Hill is much more rural in character, there have been only two incidents in the last three years, resulting in two minor injuries. Most drivers would consider that a reduction in the limit there would be inappropriate for the conditions and it is unlikely that the police would support any change. In the circumstances, it would therefore be difficult for us to justify an extension of the limit. That said, the Route Management Strategy for the A49 between Ross-on-Wye and Shrewsbury, which went out to public consultation earlier this year, is examining the appropriateness of all existing speed limits along the route, including Bayston Hill. Amongst other things, it will identify a short and long term 350W programme of improvements and aim at a consistent speed strategy. If anomalies are found, changes will be made. A report is due early in the new year. I hope this is helpful. If you would like more information, the Agency's Route Sponsor for the A49, Dennis Wheeler, would be pleased to assist. He can be contacted at our offices at Broadway, Broad Street, Birmingham B15 1BL, or by telephone on 0121 678 8126.