New cameras, data gathering and bus lanes shortening along roads notorious for crashes and accidents have been confirmed by town hall. Earlier this month, council officials said they would be shortening the bus lanes along St Helens Road and Derby Street in response to a series of crashes, some serious or even fatal. This has now been discussed at a full meeting of the council, with other new measures to tackle speeding and dangerous driving also trailed.
Cllr Abdul Atcha, who represents Rumworth, said: “There is a concerning issue of road traffic accidents occurring at St Helens Road and Derby Street. “Residents have complained about drivers not using the bus lane correctly when trying to turn into the supermarket on St Helens Road. St Helens Road has become notorious for crashes (Image: Phil Taylor) “The bus lane creates confusion and congestion, particularly for drivers coming from Bolton town centre and needing to make a right turn into the ASDA supermarket car park.
“Is there a possibility of implementing changes to improve the flow of traffic in this busy area and prevent accidents?” In June this year, grandmother Karen Kimblin was killed in a crash on St Helens Road, while another crash took place on the same stretch of road on Monday, July 22. Towards the end of July, the council confirmed that it had secured “safer roads funding” to help improve safety around St Helens Road in particular. Now council cabinet member for transport, housing and highways Cl.