A350 petition could see speed limit lowered to 40mph

Residents have called for the 60mph speed limit on the A350 to be reduced to 40mph between the Lackham Roundabout and Beanacre, where the road passes Lacock, in a new petition.

This comes after a motorcyclist in his 60s was killed in a crash involving another vehicle during the early hours of the morning on Tuesday, November 14.

While the details of this incident are not yet clear, locals say it has worsened existing fears over the stretch of road.

Katie Allen-Clarke, a Lacock resident who launched the petition, which had received over 200 signatures at the time of writing, says she witnesses the “danger” every day.

Floral tributes left at the A350 after a fatal crash (Image: Trevor Porter)

She said: “This situation is personal to me as I witness the danger every day; the risk posed by high-speed vehicles on this stretch of road is immense.

“Our community deserves better than living in constant fear of accidents or fatalities.

“This reduction will significantly decrease the risk of fatal accidents occurring along this stretch of road.

“Our lives are not worth risking for a few minutes saved on a journey time. We need your support now more than ever before any more lives are lost unnecessarily.”

Mrs Allen-Clarke added that the current speed of the busy route leaves pedestrians and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and horse riders at risk.

These groups share the fast road with “huge agricultural machinery” and tourists who do not know the area well.

Traffic on the A350 at Lacock (Image: Trevor Porter)

There are also fears that high-speed traffic causes issues for those using the single-track lanes that join or cross the A350 in the Lacock area, with “limited visibility” worsening these problems.

The council is awaiting further details of the police investigation into the most recent incident but added that any submitted petition would be given due consideration by the Area Board.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, the cabinet member for transport, said: “We were very saddened to hear about this incident, and our thoughts are with the family.

“We don’t currently have any details about this recent fatal collision and are awaiting the results of the police investigation and Coroner’s Inquest.  

“In the circumstances, it would be inappropriate to comment further as this time.

“Any submitted petition will be passed to the Area Board who will give due consideration to the concerns or requests being raised.”