THE volume and speed of traffic passing through Nynehead is increasing at an alarming rate - a nd many residents now fear for their safety.

Nynehead is one of only two villages in Somerset not to have a speed limit and yet, unlike neighbouring villages, according to the Somerset County Council, it does not meet the DfT criteria for the introduction of speed restrictions or traffic calming measures.

The problem is at its most acute in the mornings and evenings. The Cades and Longforth Farm developments of recent years have resulted in many more cars on the road on this side of town which cause frequent tailbacks on the main roads.

To avoid these, drivers now use Nynehead as a regular rat run.

Under current laws, these vehicles can drive at up to 50mph and this poses a significant risk to all pedestrians, cyclists and animals. 

There are no pavements and it is only a matter of time before there is a serious accident. The number of skid marks on the tarmac confirm the frequency with which vehicles have to brake suddenly at narrow points and bends where visibility is poor.

The problem is further compounded by overgrown hedgerows and the presence of tractors and heavy farm machinery and Nynehead is also on Route 3 of the National Cycle Path Network, thus attracting numerous cyclists.

The police have backed villagers’ calls for traffic calming measures but, as yet, Somerset County Council has implemented nothing and the situation is worsening.

It is hoped that they will now agree to revisit the roads of this parish to see for themselves the hazards posed, talk to concerned residents and respond in a proactive way to the lobbying of Nynehead Parish Council. Surely the number of collisions resulting in personal injury or death does not have to reach a given tally before they will intervene? Safety should always be paramount.

Judy Jones (Clerk to Nynehead Parish Council)