Somerset Council is weighing a major change to the A361 Frome Bypass after new camera data exposed thousands of offences and a worrying pattern of serious crashes. Officials say cutting the speed limit could be part of a wider plan to curb risky driving and save lives on this busy county road.
Why officials are considering a lower speed limit on the A361
Traffic planners are now looking at reducing the current 60mph national limit to 50mph along the bypass. The idea stems from repeated collisions and mounting evidence that higher speeds increase both the likelihood and severity of crashes.
The stretch has been labeled a ‘collision blackspot’ after multiple fatal incidents over recent years. That designation has pushed road safety higher up the council’s agenda.
What the AI cameras revealed
Between March and July this year, newly deployed AI-powered cameras logged a large number of driving offences. The technology automatically detects unsafe behaviours and flags them for follow-up.
- Over 4,500 offences were recorded in the four-month trial period.
- Offences ranged from speeding to dangerous manoeuvres and unlawful overtaking.
- The system operates as part of a joint project with Avon and Somerset Police.
The data helped expose patterns that were previously invisible to standard patrols. Police say the cameras are proving useful in identifying repeat risks before they result in tragedy.
Evidence of harm: recent casualties and local statistics
Road safety statistics have alarmed both residents and officials. Over the previous five years, the bypass saw multiple fatalities, with four recorded across 2023 and 2024 alone.
Local leaders point to research showing driver behaviour contributes to the bulk of serious collisions, a fact central to their decision-making.
Short-term fixes already implemented
In response to earlier incidents, the council made a series of urgent changes to junctions and markings last autumn. Those actions aimed to reduce immediate hazards while longer-term options were developed.
- Repainted carriageway lines for better visibility.
- Upgraded signage and replaced some Give Way signs with STOP signs.
- Extended double white lines to limit overtaking at hazardous points.
Plans being explored for permanent safety upgrades
Engineers are now studying a larger improvement scheme. If approved, construction could start in late 2026 and include junction redesign and permanent speed reductions.
Possible measures under consideration
- Reducing the posted speed limit to 50mph along key sections.
- Redesigned junction layouts to reduce conflict points.
- Physical road changes such as barriers, improved lighting, and new lane markings.
- Longer-term monitoring with AI and targeted enforcement.
Voices from the council and police
Local councillors say they understand residents’ fears and want urgent action. One senior councillor underlined the council’s commitment to working with police to cut crashes.
Police officers stress the role of technology in revealing dangerous driving habits. They describe enforcement as one element of a layered approach that includes education and engineering.
Both organisations emphasise that enforcement alone will not solve the problem. They advocate combined measures: strict monitoring, public awareness, and permanent road changes.
How the community has reacted
Residents living near the bypass have expressed concern about continued collisions and the delays caused by emergency responses. Many back stronger measures to protect road users.
- Some locals want immediate, visible policing on the route.
- Others press for faster delivery of engineering improvements.
- Businesses highlight the bypass’s role as a key transport link and call for measures that balance safety with traffic flow.
Next steps and what motorists should expect
The AI cameras will remain active while councils and police finalise plans. Officials say the data will inform whether a permanent 50mph limit is introduced and which junctions need redesign.
Drivers can expect continued enforcement and staged changes over the next two years as proposals move from study to possible construction.
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