3 days ago
- Automotive
- Powys County Times
New road markings for motorbikes on A483 near Newtown
New road markings will be trialled along a major Powys road to tackle the "unacceptable" number of serious collisions involving motorcyclists.
The markings, called Perceptual Rider Information for Maximising Expertise and Enjoyment (PRIMEs), are designed to help riders make better decisions when approaching bends.
Powys County Council 's request for the road markings between Newtown and Llandrindod Wells have been given the go-ahead by the Welsh Government.
The trials will take place along the A483 at Glascoed Hall, between Newtown and Dolfor, and Lower Crochan Farm which is located north of Llanbadarn Fynydd.
Lower Crochan Farm along the A483 north of Llanbadarn Fynydd (Image: John Firth/ The announcement follows the council's call on the Welsh Government to support and fund the PRIMES initiative as part of a broader strategy to address what has been described as a 'road safety crisis' in the county.
Over the past decade, more than 100 people have died on Powys roads, with many more suffering life-altering injuries.
Cllr Richard Church, Cabinet Member for Legal and Regulatory Services, said: 'This is a vital step forward in tackling the unacceptable number of serious accidents on our roads.
"The PRIMES initiative is an innovative approach that we hope will make a real difference in protecting motorcyclists and all road users in Powys.'
'Far too many lives lost'
Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, added: 'We've seen far too many lives lost or changed forever due to road traffic collisions and a large proportion of these involve motorcyclists.
"These trials are part of our commitment to safer, more sustainable travel in Powys. We're pleased the Welsh Government listened to our concerns and acted on them.'
The PRIMES trial is one of several recommendations made by the Powys Strategic Road Safety Group in a report sent to the Minister in 2024, which includes representatives from Powys County Council, Dyfed-Powys Police, the Welsh Government, and the Police and Crime Commissioner. The group was established to identify urgent actions to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on Powys roads.
