National Highways has begun reducing speed limits along the A35 in Dorset to improve road safety as part of a £1.8m designated fund safety scheme.

After identifying safety issues along a 26-mile section of the A35 between Charmouth and Yellowham Hill, the strategic road authority – in partnership with local authorities and police partners – plans to introduce several new 50mph, 40mph and 30mph speed reductions along the route.

According to the latest validated collision data, a total of 199 collisions occurred over five years, resulting in 305 casualties, three of which were fatalities.

The speed reduction scheme, which will commence after a statutory consultation period, will also include the installation of average speed cameras in three villages along the route.

Jack Mason, National Highways' South West road safety manager, said: ‘The initiative follows a long-term safety review and is part of our ongoing commitment to reduce the number of people harmed on the region's roads.

‘The speed reductions and average speed cameras will reduce the number and severity of collisions between Charmouth and Yellowham, improving safety for motorists and local communities.

‘As outlined in the consultation process, we'll continue to monitor the safety and performance of the route, and, working closely with our police and local authority partners, we will always look to make any future interventions where needed.'

Average speed cameras are planned for the villages of Winterbourne Abbas, Morcombelake and Chideock to enforce the existing speed limits, with the following reduced speed limits accompanying them:

  • New 50mph limit - between Berne Lane and Tizard Knap
  • New 50mph limit - between Coombe Road and Monkey's Jump Roundabout
  • New 50mph limit - between West Stinsford Roundabout and the overbridge at Cuckoo Lane Junction
  • New 40mph limit - extension between Tizzard's Knap Junction and Ryall (Star Lane)
  • New 40mph limit - between Howard Road Junction and Firch Lane
  • New 30mph limit - between Hollow Way junction and Howard Road junction
  • New 50mph limit - between Long Bredy Hut Lane and Winterbourne Abbas

The changes are based on risk assessments, collision data and the insights into driver behaviour that this data provides. These road safety factors (RSF) can include aggressive, dangerous or reckless driving, with the data also reflecting drinking under the influence and similar factors.

By using this data in combination with risk assessments, National Highways is able to prioritise engineering improvements that will provide targeted improvements and the most benefit for the safety of all road users, the national operator said.

Mark Armstrong, head of road safety at Dorset Police, added: ‘Driving at inappropriate or excess speed is one of the ‘fatal five' behaviours that commonly cause a fatal or serious injury road traffic collision.

‘The partnership welcomes the deployment of average speed cameras and we look forward to working with National Highways to continue to improve safety for all road users across Dorset.'

Also included in the £1.8m scheme are signage upgrades and lining improvements, including chevron signing to highlight upcoming bends, clearer village gateway signs, and kerb works to improve crossing provision in the villages.

Work is currently expected to be completed by the end of March, with the new speed limits being enforced by local police.