Selby MP welcomes proposals to improve rural road safety

Selby MP Keir Mather said that those living in his constituency know “all too well” about the “tragic” impact of deaths and injuries on the area’s roads and has commended proposals to improve rural road safety.

It comes after the government announced five key proposals – including a mandatory eye test for drivers over 70, a minimum practise period for learner drivers, stricter drink driving limits, tougher fines and penalties, and vehicle safety mandates.

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Mr Mather said: “The strategy is a landmark step, one that reflects the concerns shared with me by local people across Selby and Kippax.”

In 2024, there were 208 casualties on the road in the Selby area – five of which were fatal and 40 resulting in serious injuries.

Hotspots included the B1222, close to Sherburn in Elmet, and the A19 and A63 leading from neighbouring villages.

The figures tie-in with national statistics, which show that rural roads accounted for 60 per cent of deaths and 34 per cent of all casualties on the roads.

Reforms mark the first major government road safety strategy in a decade – something which Mr Mather said would save lives and protect vulnerable road users.

It aims to see a 65 per cent reduction in the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads by 2035.

Consultations on five key mandates are due to be considered by the government, with more information available here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/road-safety-strategy.

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