Welcome to Road Safety Wales
22/11/07
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| Under Secretary of State for Transport Jim Fitzpatrick MP opening the new test centre in Newport. |
A Multi-Purpose Driving Test Centre has been opened by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) in Gwent, the first of its kind in Wales. The Newport centre is
one of a national network being developed by DSA to improve road safety by incorporating space for the requirements of the new Motorcycle Test (which becomes effective in 2008) and providing improved facilities for customers.
The new Centre is situated at Stephenson Street, Newport, NP19 4XH.
7/11/07
A senior police officer says a ban on motorcycles from national parks in Wales might be one idea to cut the number of road deaths.
Chief Supt Geraint Anwyl Williams was speaking following two deaths in two separate crashes in Gwynedd on Sunday.
He said there was a "significant core" of bikers who ignored speed limits.
Chief Supt Williams of North Wales Police said a ban at particular times until the message got through was one idea which could be considered.
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7/8/07
A campaign targeting speeding motorcyclists in Powys has been relaunched after accidents rose by 50% in two years. Yellow safety signs and details about the number of bike crashes will to be posted on main roads leading into the rural county.
It is thought that a similar campaign, launched in 2004, helped reduce the amount of motorcycle-related deaths.Last year there were 82 bike accidents, compared to 68 in 2005 and 54 in 2004.
Powys Road Safety Partnership, which consists of police, council officials and the fire and ambulances services, are working together on the project. Bikers from the Midlands and south Wales flock to ride Powys' quiet, rural roads, particularly during the summer at weekends. But officials are concerned about the rise in accidents in the county.
Coun Gwilym Evans, said: "Powys is well-known amongst motorcyclists for having quiet roads running through spectacular scenery, with riders from all over the UK and beyond regularly visiting the region. Whilst we welcome all visitors to the county, we need to ensure that our highways are as safe as possible for all road users."
So far this year there have been 10 motorcycle fatalities in the Dyfed-Powys Police area, and six of those have been in Powys.
