July 14, 2017 2.50 pm This story is over 80 months old

Highways England to review safety of killer stretch of A1

Highways England will conduct a safety review of a section of the A1 near Newark which has been referred to by residents as a “death trap” for the high amount of crashes and fatalities. A decision to hold a review was reached after three local MPs met with Roads Minister Jesse Norman MP and a…

Highways England will conduct a safety review of a section of the A1 near Newark which has been referred to by residents as a “death trap” for the high amount of crashes and fatalities.

A decision to hold a review was reached after three local MPs met with Roads Minister Jesse Norman MP and a senior Highways England director.

Sleaford and North Hykeham MP Caroline Johnson was joined by Newark MP Robert Jenrick and Bassetlaw MP John Mann in pushing for the comprehensive review.

Residents themselves have demanded changes, describing the road as a death trap.

Particular fears have been expressed about the junction with the A46 and A17 at Newark.

In March 2017, Lincolnshire County Council’s former business and public protection manager Ian Newell was killed in a six-vehicle crash near Newark.

Nick Harris, executive director operations, at Highways England confirmed that their figures showed a high number of accidents along this stretch, and that they were monitoring this as a matter of concern.

A review will now be undertaken by Highways England by the end of the financial year.

The government is also said to have set aside money to redevelop the A1/A46/A17 junction, with the Roads Minister promising an agreed route for the new Newark Northern Bypass and scheme for the Brownhills and Winthorpe roundabouts would be ready within two years.

Robert Jenrick said: “Safety on the A1 is a serious concern to local residents and the regular accidents and resulting gridlock has a major economic impact on the area.

“I’m pleased a review will now occur.”