EIGHT animals have been killed by vehicles on Castlemorton Common in just two years as calls grow for a lower speed limit.
Worcestershire County Council is consulting on proposals to reduce the speed limit on the B4208 between Castlemorton Common and Rye Cross from 60mph to 40mph in a bid to improve safety for both animals and motorists.
The proposed change has been welcomed by county councillor Tom Wells, who said he has campaigned for years for measures to tackle the number of animals being killed on the common.
“I have long campaigned for a lower speed limit across the common,” he said.
“The sad catalogue of deaths to sheep and cattle grazing on the common has grown substantially in recent years.”
At least six sheep and two steers have been killed by vehicles on the common over the last two years.
Tom Wells has been campaigning for a lower speed limit on Castlemorton Common for years (Image: Malvern Hills District Council)
READ MORE: Signs erected on Castlemorton Common after animals killed
He said grazing rights held by local commoners play an important role in preserving the landscape and maintaining the common’s character.
“The centuries-old local commoners’ rights to graze their animals is important in managing the commons in a sustainable way,” he said.
He also noted similar measures have been introduced in other areas where livestock regularly graze alongside roads.
“It is the case that the Forest of Dean and the New Forest have adopted similar policies,” he said.
In June, improved signage was installed along the route to help alert drivers to the presence of animals on the common.
“Hopefully, the lower speed limits, together with improved signage, will create a safer environment for animals and drivers alike,” Councillor Wells said.
If approved, the changes are intended to reduce the risk of further collisions and help protect livestock grazing on one of Worcestershire’s most prominent commons.
