Speed reduction on crash-prone bend rejected

Plans for a 20mph speed limit on a tight bend have been rejected, despite villagers fearing someone could be killed.

The Lincolnshire Roads Safety Partnership (LRSP) had recommended introducing the limit at Hall Corner on the A16 at East Keal, Lincolnshire.

The proposal was rejected by Lincolnshire County Council's planning committee on Monday, stating there were already warning signs that most drivers took notice of.

Graham Pearson, 63, who had called for the speed limit change after a cement lorry hit his garden wall and overturned, said he was "shocked and surprised" by the decision.

"We made a very good case for accident prevention on this dangerous bend. It's an accident that's waiting [to happen]," Pearson said.

"Slowing everything down would mitigate the risk."

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, there have been at least six recorded incidents on the bend since 2019, including lorries and tractors tipping over, often damaging the safety barrier and nearby properties.

Councillor Philip Roberts, who represents the area, said the issues on the bend were "very concerning", and a 20mph limit would "make a big difference".

"30mph seems to be the tipping point where vehicles lose control," he added.

At the meeting on Monday, several councillors voiced their opposition to reducing speeds in the area.

Former county council leader Martin Hill said: "This would be annoying for the vast majority who are not concrete drivers, and an unnecessary annoyance."

Others highlighted there were already signs and markings to alert drivers to the sharp bend.

Councillor James Bean added: "We shouldn't be legislating for poor drivers, we can't wrap the whole world in cotton wool."

Pearson told the BBC that he would look to make an appeal against the planning committee's decision.

The LRSP said it would review the corner following the decision, including the signs, safety barriers and incline.

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