We call on Telford & Wrekin Council to take immediate action to improve safety on the A518 by reducing the speed limit from 60mph to 50mph and installing two fixed speed cameras. These changes will prevent further tragedies and make the road safer for all users.

 

Why This Petition Matters:

The A518 is a vital road for residents and commuters, but it’s become increasingly dangerous due to speeding, risky overtaking, and a dangerous junction. Several serious and fatal accidents have already occurred along this stretch — including a crash that claimed the lives of a woman and child in 2022, another life as of today and many more previous to this.

We need action before more lives are lost.

 

What We’re Asking For:

Lower the speed limit to 50mph in high-risk zones of the A518
Install two fixed speed cameras in the most dangerous locations

The Benefits:

Saves lives: Just one fatal crash avoided could save £2.2 million in public and social costs

Reduces injuries and emergency callouts
Deters speeding and reckless overtaking
Creates a safer environment for everyone

Improved Driver Behaviour: Cameras and lower limits encourage safer, more responsible driving.

Community Wellbeing: Safer roads mean safer walking, cycling, and commuting for everyone.

 

Why This is Better Than Other Options:

Speed cameras + a lower speed limit provide a fast, affordable, and effective solution:

Speed Cameras

Cost: £80,000–£120,000 for two
Quick to install (within months)
Cover long stretches of road
Annual upkeep is low (£8,000)

Traffic Lights

Cost: £250,000–£1.2 million+ (depending on complexity)
Long setup time (6–12 months+)
Only protect one junction
Higher maintenance costs

Conclusion: Speed cameras give broader protection at a fraction of the cost and time.

Real-World Proof – Local Success Stories:

This approach has worked elsewhere:

Lawley (2023): Cameras were added after community concern — safer roads followed
A49 (2011): Speed cameras reduced crashes after 162 collisions in 3 years
Hadley Park Road (2010): Speeding dropped by 25% with enforcement
Pontesbury & Hanwood (2022): ANPR cameras funded by local councils improved safety
A458 Ford (2012): Mobile speed site addressed excess speeds and saw results

These examples prove that speed enforcement works — and the A518 deserves the same attention.

The Cost of Inaction is Too High

Every day we delay action, we risk another tragedy. By investing in this proposal, Telford & Wrekin Council can save lives, reduce emergency response costs, and create safer roads for all residents and visitors.

Join Us

Sign this petition to demand a safer A518. Let’s work together to stop preventable accidents and protect lives.

We urge the council to prioritize this proposal and take swift, compassionate action before more lives are lost.