Target To Halve Road Deaths And Injuries

Monday, 20 December 2021 06:30

The Infrastructure Minister has unveiled plans to halve the number of road deaths and serious injuries in Jersey by 2032.

The 'Island Road Safety Review' was called for by St Martin Constable Karen Shenton-Stone, who wanted it presented by the end of the year.

The Minister says this 43 page review is the precursor to 'a full, detailed Road Safety Strategy' coming next year.

Deputy Kevin Lewis says the government is setting 'ambitious targets' which will be progressed by a dedicated Road Safety Coordinator and Road Safety Officer as well as a Road Safety Partnership involving road user groups.

More data will be collected about collisions and, ultimately, new legislation introduced to cover new forms of transport and give clearer enforcement powers.

In 2019 there were 256 recorded injury collisions with 283 casualties. One person was killed, 42 suffered serious injury and 240 sustained slight injuries.

The review suggests some 'specific funding' will be needed - estimating £125,000 -£140,000 a year to pay for a Road Safety Coordinator and Officer.

It also lists £35,000 for education, training and publicity, £9,000 on cycle training and £35,000 on school crossing patrols - if they are organised by government rather than school by school.

The forthcoming strategy will detail how the ambition to halve casualties number will be achieved.

"This structural review represents a significant milestone in our work to make Jersey’s roads safer for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. We are now looking to set these ambitious targets to ensure we continue to move in the right direction.

“The appointments of a dedicated Road Safety Coordinator and Road Safety Officer will be important for moving this work forward and ultimately helping us cut fatalities and serious casualties on our roads.” - Deputy Kevin Lewis.