Rossendale police target 'rat-run' speeders (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Rossendale police target 'rat-run' speeders

11:00am Friday 30th July 2010 in

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POLICE in Rossendale are targeting speeding drivers along a popular 'rat-run'.

Slowing vehicles on Newchurch Road, between Waterfoot and Stacksteads, has become a police priority after residents living along the road expressed serious concerns.

Police units are now monitoring the speeds of motorists using the shortcut, which bypasses Bacup Road to access both Rawtenstall and Bacup.

Though Heightside House Nursing Home and Newchurch St Nicholas Primary School are both located along the road, some motorists are showing no restraint in their driving, police said.

PC Ian Thompson, who covers the Hareholme ward, said: “We have met with residents around that area and they are clearly concerned there will be an accident unless something is done.

“It is about education and enforcement. We are now involved in a multi agency operation with Lancashire county council and Pennine Road Safety Unit to tackle the problem.

“Anyone ignoring the speed limits or driving recklessly will be dealt with robustly.”

“The new operation will complement our usual patrols on Newchurch Road.”

The initiative has been backed by the borough council who have also spoken out against dangerous drivers in the Valley.

A spokesman from Rossendale Council said: “We welcome the police carrying out this speed enforcement operation in response to local community concerns.

“Elderly people and school children are particularly at risk from speeding drivers.”

To report any incidents of dangerous driving in the ward call 01706 237367.