Hyndburn Council member Councillor Noordad Aziz has taken a significant step towards enhancing road safety on the M65 motorway by proposing a reduction in the night speed limit. This initiative gained momentum after the authority’s Full Council unanimously passed a motion on the topic during a meeting on Thursday night. Cllr Aziz’s call for action comes in the wake of a troubling series of incidents on the motorway, which have raised serious concerns about the safety of the route that serves as a critical artery for both local residents and those traveling across the region.
The council’s motion seeks an extensive safety audit of the M65’s accident history, with the aim of identifying effective measures to prevent any further loss of life or serious injuries. Cllr Aziz expressed his dismay at the recent accidents, stating that such incidents not only impact the Hyndburn community, but also affect all who travel along the motorway, which stretches from the M6 all the way to Junction 14 at Boundary Mill. This comprehensive route has become indispensable for daily commutes and various forms of transportation, but it has also witnessed an alarming increase in dangerous accidents, particularly during the night and adverse weather conditions.
The motion, which was seconded by Cllr Kate Walsh representing Rishton, emphasized the urgent need for action. It calls upon National Highways and Lancashire County Council to conduct a thorough review of the M65’s overall safety, particularly in light of the frequency and severity of recent accidents. The motion articulates a clear expectation: the review should focus on enhancing road safety, lowering accident risks, and promoting the well-being of all who use the motorway.
Cllr Aziz highlighted various incidents that have occurred on the M65, drawing attention to the gravity of the situation. Among the troubling events were a fatal three-car collision at junction nine that resulted in one death and five severe injuries, as well as another incident involving a horse that led to one fatality and four injuries between junctions eight and ten. There was also the devastating accident in May that claimed the life of a 32-year-old woman near Preston, along with additional crashes occurring between junctions three and two that resulted in significant disruption. These incidents illuminate a disconcerting trend that requires immediate intervention.
During the meeting, Cllr Aziz passionately conveyed the community’s concerns, stating, “This is an issue that affects not just the Hyndburn community but anyone who travels the M65.” He underscored that the motorway, vital for many residents’ day-to-day lives, has transformed into a perilous route marred by tragic accidents. He recounted how a local resident had reached out to express their disappointment regarding the removal of the only two lit sections along the motorway. According to this resident’s observation, the M65 has become entirely dark from Boundary Mill to the M6, creating an intimidating stretch that can be both challenging and dangerous to navigate in low visibility.
Cllr Aziz reiterated the necessity for change, emphasizing that the dual concerns of inadequate lighting and poor road conditions, including dim road signage and ineffective cat’s eyes, contribute significantly to the hazards faced by drivers. He posed a challenging question to his fellow council members: “How can the speed limit remain the same at night with no lights as it does on a bright, clear day?” Citing the prevalent darkness, he proposed a reduction of the speed limit to 60 mph during nighttime hours, especially on stretches where visibility is compromised.
Cllr Aziz passionately argued that a comprehensive review by National Highways and Lancashire County Council should assess various measures to improve safety, such as restoring better lighting systems and enhancing visibility features like cat’s eyes. He eloquently pointed out that these improvements are essential not only for public safety but could also contribute positively to travel efficiency and help reduce congestion caused by frequent accidents, thereby benefiting all road users.
His motion received support from Cllr Zak Khan, the leader of the authority’s Conservative opposition group, who echoed the urgency of reducing risks on the motorway. Cllr Khan stated, “One fatality on this road is one too many. We can never eliminate the risk, but we can reduce it.” His affirmation of Cllr Aziz’s call underscores a growing consensus among council members regarding the pressing need for action to prevent further tragedies on the M65.
The debate surrounding the M65 highlights broader issues concerning road safety and the responsibilities of both local authorities and national agencies in creating safe transportation environments. As incidents continue to mount, the increasing need to address infrastructure shortcomings and review safety protocols becomes increasingly evident. The proposal for a reduced night speed limit, along with a detailed safety audit, could be critical steps toward fostering a more secure travel experience for motorists.
As discussions unfold and potential measures are scrutinized, community members are keenly watching how local authorities will respond to Cllr Aziz’s motion. The hope is that through collaboration with National Highways and the county council, meaningful changes can be implemented to enhance the safety of the M65, protecting the lives of those who depend on this vital roadway. The growing outcry from the community serves as a potent reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility, one that cannot be dismissed in the face of increasing fatalities and accidents.
This proposed shift in speed limits and safety audits represents more than just policy changes. It symbolizes a commitment by local leaders to safeguard their constituents and ensure that the M65 remains a safe and accessible route for all—a challenge that resonates strongly with those who travel its length day in and day out. As conversations continue, it becomes clear that the path ahead requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders to prioritize road safety in every decision made regarding the region’s infrastructure.