I’m pleased to be able to report that Highways England is developing substantial proposals for the realignment of the existing footways and kerbs, new pedestrian refuges and improved bus stop and turning facilities on the A64 at Welburn and Crambeck. This follows the terrible tragedies last summer when four people were killed within a month on that stretch of road. Highways England has conducted detailed studies after several meetings with myself, the police, Councillor Caroline Goodrick and local residents to discuss what can be done to improve safety. Highways England says that its design team expects to have the detailed design, including enhanced signs and road markings, completed by next summer with a view to starting construction later in the year. Whilst these improvements have taken longer than we would have liked, it is important that we get it right to ensure that the solution does not result in unintended consequences which could make matters worse. These changes will allow pedestrians to cross the road safely and access the bus stop. Since the tragedies last year, we have helped to make sure that there is an increased police safety camera presence on that stretch of the A64 to slow drivers down, especially around Welburn and Crambeck junctions. I will continue to keep up the pressure to make sure that these improvements are delivered as soon as possible.
