James Wild MP has welcomed the approval of nearly 100 new schemes across Norfolk designed to enhance safety in towns and villages throughout the county. Norfolk County Council's cabinet has committed over £425,000 towards an £850,000 initiative under the council's parish partnership scheme which will support 97 projects focused on improving road safety.
The approved schemes include a range of measures aimed at reducing speed and increasing driver awareness, such as 22 village gateways to encourage drivers to slow down in populated areas, and 21 SAM2 cameras to display speed warnings. Additionally, eight ‘trod’ footpaths, made from recycled road surface material, will be constructed, alongside four new footpaths and 10 new bus shelters.
These improvements will benefit communities across North West Norfolk, including Castle Acre, East Rudham, Great Massingham, Hunstanton, King's Lynn, North Runcton, Ringstead, South Creake, Terrington St Clement, and Thornham.
The parish partnership scheme, which has been running since 2011, allows local communities to bid for funding, with town and parish councils match-funding the county council’s contribution. This collaborative approach ensures that funding is targeted where it’s most needed and that local communities play an active role in improving their own safety.
James Wild MP said:
"Having spoken about road safety in Parliament, I am pleased to see these important safety measures being implemented across Norfolk. They will enhance pedestrian safety, promote responsible driving, and make a significant difference to making our roads safer."
James has long been an advocate for stronger road safety measures and tougher penalties for dangerous driving, particularly in the wake of serious road traffic incidents in North West Norfolk. In Parliament, he has consistently called for tougher sentencing and mandatory lifetime driving bans for those convicted of fatal driving offences. He has stressed the need for stronger deterrents and greater accountability for reckless drivers to protect communities and prevent further tragedies.
