A120 to Harwich could see speed limit cut to 50mph

National Highways has proposed reducing the existing 60mph speed limit to 50mph along the eight-mile stretch of road, which has claimed a number of lives.

The proposal – which has a 21-day consultation period ending on September 20 – includes speed cameras to enforce the new speed limit.

Work is expected to start in late autumn. 

There were four fatal crashes on the road in 2022.

A total of 32 collisions involving injuries were recorded on the route over a five-year period with 63 casualties.

Danger - Councillor Ivan Henderson campaigning in 2022 after there was 5 fatal crashes in six months (Image: Labour)

Harwich councillor Ivan Henderson previously described the section between Horsley Cross and Ramsay roundabout as “a dangerous blackspot”.

Mr Henderson said: "I am really pleased that National Highways have listened to my calls and that they are looking at speed reductions of 50mph.

"Please may residents and also visitors who use that road take part in the public consultation.

"Tragically, as well as the serious injuries there have been fatalities.

"In the meantime, before it is hopefully dualled, my priority is to try and make sure the road has safety measures to reduce as far as we can any further collisions."

Mr Henderson said the whole road should have been 50mph from the start like it is from Hare Green to Horsley Cross.

Congratulations - Sir Bernard Jenkin congratulated all those who campaigned (Image: Conservatives)

Harwich and North Essex MP Sir Bernard Jenkin said: “This is very good news and, in advance of any other road improvements, will save lives.

“It is tragic that it took death and injury to bring this about. I congratulate all those who have campaigned for safer speed limits.”  

Mr Henderson previously called for urgent action and a uniform 50mph speed limit on the A120 east following four fatal crashes in as many months in 2022.

They included healthcare worker Nicola Frost, 40, who died after a collision involving her Suzuki Ignis and a Mercedes Sprinter van on the A120 at nearby Ramsey.

Missed - Nicola Frost and David Edmunds (Image: Family)

Antiquarian bookseller David Edmunds, 82, of Wrabness, died following a collision between his Volvo V40 and a van at the A120’s junction with Primrose Lane.

An 84-year-old woman also died following a crash on the A120 at Wix, while quad biker Marley Kline, 18, died after a collision on the Colchester-bound A120 at Great Bromley.

You can respond to the consultation by email at eastproactivecomms@nationalhighways.co.uk before Friday, September 20, using the subject line “PROPOSED SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION ON THE A120 HORSLEY CROSS TO PARKESTON”, or write to Road Safety East, National Highways, Woodlands, Manton Lane, Bedford, MK41 7LW