New road safety strategy welcomed by local PCC

The Government has revealed its new road safety strategy today as police and crime commissioner John Campion welcomes the proposals for communities across Telford and the wider West Mercia area.

These plans include lowering the drink drive limit and introducing mandatory eye tests every three years for drivers over 70.

Drivers could also face tougher penalties for failing to wear a seatbelt. The strategy follows data showing 559 casualties or fatalities occurred on the roads between January and October last year.

Of those incidents, 67 involved a driver aged 70 or over. A further 100 involved young drivers aged between 17 and 24, with speed and inexperience cited as contributing factors.

PCC John Campion said: “Road safety is consistently raised with me as the number one concern for local communities.

“One life lost on our roads is one too many, and by working closely with organisations like RoadPeace I hear too often the impact this harm has on loved ones. That’s why I welcome any steps that help make West Mercia’s roads safer.

“It is disappointing, however, that this strategy has only now been published after multiple delays by the Government. There is no time to waste when lives are at risk.

“National strategies like this underline the vital role of PCCs in driving local action and supports my ongoing efforts alongside West Mercia Police and our local authority partners.

“The absence of Graduated Driving Licences is also a missed opportunity, but I remain committed to supporting bereaved families calling for change to better protect newly qualified drivers.”