Welsh Government ‘considering options’ after A55 crashes and barrier concerns

Welsh Government is “considering options” after a series of crashes on a stretch of the A55[1] and concerns over a safety barrier. There have been several crashes at Penmaen-bach Point – a headland stretch between Penmaenmawr and Conwy[2] – in recent months. A Senedd member says there have been nine recorded incidents in 2023 where the crash barrier/aluminium railings separating the dual carriageway from the cycle and pedestrian lane have been damaged.

Janet Finch-Saunders, Senedd member for Aberconwy, has written to Lee Waters MS, Deputy Minister for Climate Change in the Welsh Government, over the issue. She said there had only been one incident the previous year.

North Wales Live asked Welsh Government if it was looking at changes to the stretch – like additional enforcement on that part of the road, which is 30mph.

The government said it was “considering the options”. MS Mrs Finch-Saunders said: “I have seen photographic evidence of the barrier when damaged, and it had been forced over more than 50% of the pavement. There is no doubt in my mind that the barrier and railings do not adequately protect pedestrians and cyclists from vehicles on the A55.

“In light of the considerable increase in incidents at Penmaen-bach Point in 2023, I have asked the Deputy Minister for Climate Change to arrange for a review of the safety of National Cycle Route at this location.” A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “In light of recent incidents, we are reviewing the data and considering the options available to us.” Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now[5]

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References

1. ^ A55 (www.dailypost.co.uk)
2. ^ Conwy (www.dailypost.co.uk)
3. ^ Locations of mobile speed cameras in North Wales for January 2024 and update on 20mph enforcement (www.dailypost.co.uk)
4. ^ What we know about A55 seven vehicle crash in Denbighshire which sparked major delays (www.dailypost.co.uk)
5. ^ Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now (www.dailypost.co.uk)