Road traffic fatalities increase by a third in a year
Road deaths in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire have surged over the last 12 months, data shows.
Fatalities caused by road traffic accidents have increased by a third since last year, statistics revealed by the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) show, but John Campion said there was “no clear trend” to explain the increase in road deaths.
The figures show that in 2023/2024 there was a 32 per cent increase in fatal casualties on the roads policed by West Mercia when compared to the 2022/2023.
The data was revealed by Mr Campion following a formal meeting with Temporary Chief Constable Alex Murray.
A key focus of the meeting was the action the force was taking to ensure that the public remains safe on West Mercia’s roads following the spike in road deaths. Road safety which remains a central part of the PCC’s “mission to build a Safer West Mercia”.
Mr Campion said as there was no clear trend to explain the road death increase, the force has “undertaken additional analysis”.
It has also produced a "supporting plan" for how the force engages with communities on what they can do to play an active part in making roads safer, as well as outlining the next steps to prevent people being killed or seriously injured on West Mercia’s roads.
The PCC said that he will continue to provide investment into enforcement to support the work of the force.
Mr Campion also raised the issue of the 999-call handling service in West Mercia after an increase in demand earlier this year led to a decrease in performance.
At present, 88 per cent of 999 calls in West Mercia are answered in 10 seconds, short of the 90 per cent target, but the PCC was offered assurance that the 999 service remains an area of focus, with the force exploring options to further improve performance.
National Policing Priorities were also addressed in the meeting, with the Temprary Chief Constable highlighting the service that West Mercia Police provides to the communities of West Mercia.
PCC John Campion said: “As the voice of the public in policing, a central part of my role is to ensure that the force is delivering a high-quality service to the communities of West Mercia.
“This meeting outlined that there are some impressive outcomes being delivered by West Mercia Police for our communities to ensure they are safe and feel safe, including reducing crime and bringing evermore offenders to justice.
“However, it’s also clear that in some areas, continued improvement and focus is needed to ensure the public feel confident that their police force will deliver the service they need and deserve. I will continue to support and challenge the Chief Constable to achieve this to build a Safer West Mercia.”