Inspector Robert Neeson referred to his regular travel along the
A515 and his surprise to hear about the number of HG/CVs using the
route. He explained that;
- From a Policing
perspective, problem areas had to be considered.
- Issues were at cross
roads as a result of driver error.
- Narrow roads were an
issue and there was a need to look at this.
- If weight
restrictions were put in place twenty four hours a day, seven days
a week, enforcement would not be possible all of the time but there
would be enforcement via operations.
- Regarding policing
statistics the A515 rarely reported accidents. The main area of
concern was the Mitre Junction.
- Average speed cameras
had been effective from Yoxall to Draycott in the Clay.
- There were other
areas such as Barton under Needham and Fradley which had similar problems.
- All schools had
issues from 7:30-9am.
- Unfortunately due to
budget constraints there were less Police Officers but where there
was a need this need would be considered. The Police wanted to keep
people safe and reassured and it was important for local Police
Officers and Police Community Support Officers to be aware of
concerns.
- Lichfield and East
Staffordshire Police Officers would be made aware of the issues
discussed.
Toby Wilson, Station Manager, Staffordshire
Fire and Rescue Service read a statement on behalf of Tim Hyde
Service Delivery Lead. Key points included that;
- Staffordshire Fire
and Rescue Service has “making Staffordshire the safest place
to be” as its core objective. Supporting employment and
prosperity was one of the cornerstones of this as deprivation was
one of the greatest contributory factors to vulnerability.
- The data regarding
road traffic accidents along the stretch of the A515 indicated that
the use of the roads by LGV’s is not causing a
disproportionate level of risk when compared to other similar roads
within the County.
- One known hotspot was
the Mitre Crossroads. Data suggests that it was the characteristics
of the junction rather than the type of vehicle which was the
biggest single factor in the incidence of road traffic collisions
at that location.
- Staffordshire Fire
and Rescue Service is not in support of the proposed ban on
LGV’s from the perspective of community safety. However,
there was likely to be a link between the use of the road in
support of the industry in the Fradley
area and disruption of the communities along the A515, as much of
the industry around Fradley is twenty
four hours a day seven days a week and some is weighted so as to
attract more traffic at night.
- During night time
hours the A38/ A50 (the alternative to using the A515) are
relatively less busy and so using these as an alternative route for
LGV’s at night is less likely to be disrupted by
traffic.
·
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service suggested a part time ban on
LGV’s, between 7pm and 7am, would be a reasonable compromise,
allowing the communities some peace and fulfilling the needs of
industry and transport to have an efficient supply chain.