Ex-Lancashire road policing officer Paul Brooks recently made headlines with his stark comments regarding the state of motorways in the region, highlighting what he perceives as a troubling lack of adequate policing and oversight. Drawing on his background in law enforcement, Brooks expressed serious concerns about the impact of financial pressures on police forces, which, he argues, have resulted in ineffective monitoring of vital roadways. His assertions come amid rising apprehensions by authorities in East Lancashire—specifically, Hyndburn, Burnley, and Pendle—about safety on the M65 motorway.
Brooks’s comments are rooted in a belief that the current approach to motorway policing is insufficient and that operational constraints prevent officers from doing their jobs effectively. He characterized the presence of Highways Agency officers as akin to “policing on the cheap,” indicating that while these officers operate on the roadways, they often lack sufficient powers to enforce traffic laws rigorously. This has led to frustrations for Brooks and many locals—he claims that speeding drivers often disregard these officers, rendering their ability to uphold safety standards fundamentally compromised.
This narrative of inadequate motorway enforcement is particularly concerning as traffic incidents continue to pose significant risks to public safety on major roads. With a growing number of vehicles on the M65, the situation highlights the urgent need for reinforced policing measures. Brooks’s perspective resonates particularly with community members who have witnessed the aftermath of accidents and near-misses firsthand. His comments have touched a raw nerve among the residents of East Lancashire, who are becoming increasingly vocal about their fears regarding road safety.
In response to Brooks’s concerns, Lancashire’s County Police Commissioner Clive Grunshaw provided a more optimistic viewpoint, emphasizing the proactive measures being taken by the Lancashire Constabulary to enhance road safety. Grunshaw acknowledged the concerns raised about dangerous driving and confirmed the existence of a dedicated road policing unit within the force. This unit focuses on patrolling the county’s roads and addressing various traffic offenses, including speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The Commissioner highlighted that they also respond to serious and fatal collisions, underscoring their commitment to promoting safety on all roadways.
Grunshaw also pointed out that the police have been actively conducting numerous operations aimed at identifying and addressing individuals who pose a risk to public safety on the roads. He stated, “Dangerous driving comes up time and time again as a huge concern for our communities, and it is a priority to make our roads even safer for the majority of law-abiding motorists.” This assertion reflects a strong commitment from the police force to not only address but also prioritize the enforcement of road safety measures.
Moreover, Grunshaw guaranteed ongoing collaboration with the road safety partnership and expressed his determination to hold the Chief Constable accountable for maintaining effective road policing across the region, from bustling motorways to quieter rural routes. His assurance aims to reassure constituents that the police are taking threats to road safety seriously, despite the ongoing challenges posed by funding and resource constraints.
While these responses illustrate the efforts being made by the police, Brooks remains concerned about broader systemic issues affecting motorway safety. One of his major points of contention is the loss of lighting on the M65, which he argues creates hazardous conditions for drivers, especially during nighttime travel. He also cited the “inadequate drainage” along the motorway, which can exacerbate hazardous conditions, particularly during heavy rainfall. The mix of two-lane and three-lane sections also presents a unique set of challenges for motorists, potentially contributing to confusion and a higher risk of accidents.
Mr. Brooks’s views gained additional traction after Pendle Councillor Mick Strickland, who has firsthand experience as a fire service worker attending M65 traffic accidents, sought to garner support for a motion addressing these pressing issues. Strickland’s efforts have led to a growing call among local authorities for improved infrastructure and safety measures along the M65. In a bid to ensure that the issues highlighted by Brooks and others do not go unaddressed, Pendle Council resolved to reach out to multiple stakeholders, including National Highways, Lancashire County Council, the Secretary of State for Transport, and local Members of Parliament.
The intention behind this outreach is clear: to advocate for immediate improvements to the M65 and to secure investments that could reinstate lighting where it has been removed. Such improvements are seen as vital not only for enhancing the safety of drivers but also for instilling greater confidence within the community regarding the overall management and oversight of the M65.
For many residents of East Lancashire, the proactive steps taken by local authorities represent a glimmer of hope. They signal a shared commitment to addressing the failings in road safety and respond meaningfully to growing concerns about enforcement. The cooperative effort between local councils, the community, and police can potentially serve as a template for tackling similar issues across the country, especially in regions facing financial constraints impacting public safety initiatives.
Public discourse around road safety and policing has significant implications—both immediate and long-term—for community well-being. As citizens advocate for enhanced safety measures, the conversation around the resources necessary to enact these changes becomes increasingly critical. It raises essential questions about the role of local and national government in ensuring safe roadways.
The convergence of Brooks’s insights and the police commissioner’s commitments forms part of a broader conversation about the future of road safety in the UK. Issues such as limited funding, changing traffic patterns, and public perception of policing are all intertwined in the discussions happening across various levels of government and community organizations. As safety concerns continue to rise, so does the potential for increased collaboration to find solutions to the challenges faced by motorists, pedestrians, and law enforcement.
In conclusion, the sentiments expressed by former road policing officer Paul Brooks reflect deeper systemic issues regarding road safety on the M65 and the efficacy of current policing practices. While Clive Grunshaw, the Lancashire Police Commissioner, emphasizes the efforts being made to bolster road safety, the public’s concerns, as articulated by Brooks and others, illustrate an ongoing dialogue that must continue to ensure that vital road infrastructure is adequately monitored and maintained. With the Pendle Council’s plans for advocacy and engagement with key stakeholders, there is a collective recognition that addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort involving community voices, local authorities, and law enforcement. As such, the focus should remain on ensuring that all drivers can navigate the roads safely, with the backing of a well-resourced and effective policing strategy.