Callow Hill: Speed limit cut on deadly Bewdley road

The Callow Hill Road Safety Group (CHRSG) called on Worcestershire County Council to improve the safety of all road users on the A456 at Callow Hill, near Bewdley.

The group submitted a freedom of information request to the council and discovered in just over 20 years, around 19 fatal or serious collisions have occurred on the stretch of the road.

A further crash claimed the lives of four-year-old Keegan Fettis, his mum Gemma Hobbins, 32 and her friend Cody Smith, 28, in May last year. An inquest found that ‘excessive speed’ was a factor in the tragedy.

The road was subject to a 40mph speed restriction, but campaigners claimed this should be 30mph, like other nearby villages.

The speed limit on the stretch of road has now been cut to 30mph.

Pat Hodges, the leader of the Callow Hill Road Safety Group, is hoping the changes will make it safer for those in the community.

She said: “I’m hoping it will make it a lot safer for people crossing the road, pulling out onto the road, children, cyclists, and horse riders.

“At the end of the day, we’ve all got to care for each other”.

James Baker, press officer for the group, added: “I’m very pleasantly surprised that it’s happened.

“We are delighted – it’s what we’ve been asking for. It’s an important step in making the road safer for everybody”.

He thanked Worcestershire County Councillor Dan Morehead and MP Mark Garnier for their support.

Councillor Dan Morehead and Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier (Image: Councillor Dan Morehead)

Councillor Morehead said: "I’m delighted that following a long-term campaign for the speed limit to be reviewed on Callow Hill it has, this week, been reduced to 30mph.

"The Callow Hill environment has evolved over the years with school children crossing, pubs, caravan parks, a visitor centre and a village hall/sports centre all on a busy commuter road that runs through a residential village.

"The changes will be supported by clear signage, reminders on vehicle activated signs and enforcement to make the most of the opportunity to calm speeds and avoid accidents.

"I would like to thank our MP Mark Garnier, Rock Parish Council, Jim and Pat from the Callow Hill Road Safety Group and all residents for their support and patience over the last few years".

Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier added: "Further to the meeting between myself, Cllr Dan Morehead and John Campion 4 West Mercia Police & Crime Commissioner with Worcestershire County Council Highway Officers in September last year, and subsequent meetings thereafter; it is welcome news that Callow Hill is now 30mph.

"We look forward to receiving a full report of the A456 from West Midlands Safari Park through to Callow Hill, including the Bewdley By-Pass from Highways once completed".