New safety measures planned for A30 after recent fatalities

Action will be taken by the end of this summer to improve safety on the A30 near Sherborne.

This is in response to a Coroner’s report and a number of serious and fatal road traffic collisions at Loscombe Crossroads.

The measures, to be introduced by Dorset Council, follow a report issued by HM Senior Coroner for Dorset, Rachael C. Griffin, after the tragic death of Charlotte Avis in December 2022. Charlotte died when her vehicle was struck head-on by another car that had crossed into her lane at the Over Compton junction.

The Coroner’s report (Regulation 28: Report To Prevent Future Deaths) received in May this year, highlighted eight collisions at the junction between January 2014 and March 2025, resulting in multiple injuries and four fatalities, three of which occurred in the last four years.

Ms Griffin also noted: “Although the speed of the road was reduced by Dorset Council from 70mph to 60mph, I have concerns around the layout of the road and the number of collisions in the area, and that there could be future deaths that occur. In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths, and I believe you have the power to take such action.”

In response, Dorset Council plans to introduce the following actions under a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO):

1. Movement restrictions at Over Compton junction

• All right-turn, U-turn, and straight-over movements into Marl Lane and Old Compton Lane from the A30 will be prohibited.
• Left turn movements onto and off the A30 at Marl Lane and Old Compton Lane will still be permitted.
• Barriers will be installed at the junction to enforce these changes.

The effectiveness of the restrictions will be reviewed before any decision is made to make permanent changes.

2. Feasibility study for average speed cameras

• Due to persistent speeding and a high number of collisions along the A30 between Yeovil and Sherborne, the Council will conduct a feasibility study into the effectiveness of installing average speed cameras.

This will be done in collaboration with Dorset Police to support enforcement of the 60mph speed limit introduced in October 2024.

The process for implementing a TTRO will see Dorset Council notify key stakeholders before implementation. This notification will occur soon.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said:

“We were deeply saddened by Charlotte’s death and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, as well as to all those affected by other incidents where people have been killed or seriously injured at this junction.

“We are grateful to the Coroner for her report and recommendations, which reflect our shared commitment to improving road safety.

“Road safety is one of our highest priorities, and we are determined to take whatever action is necessary to prevent further tragedies. We will continue working with partners and the community to ensure the A30 is as safe as possible.”