Road safety partnership plan launched by Welsh Government

The Welsh Government has launched a new partnership plan, outlining its vision to achieve a 40% reduction in road fatalities by 2040.

The plan is the product of extensive stakeholder engagement, including public consultation, workshops, and expert reviews, ensuring a shared sense of ownership and responsibility.

Grounded in the Safe System approach and a commitment to Vision Zero, the plan aligns with the UK Road Safety Strategy, aiming to create a strong foundation for collaboration.

Additional targets will address those exposed to the highest risk and those with protected characteristics including those with disabilities. Progress will be tracked using both casualty data and a suite of Safety Performance Indicators (SPIs) tailored to Welsh circumstances.

Key priorities for action include:

• Enhancing the environment: Supporting the use of sustainable transport, integration of modes, upgrading infrastructure and managing speeds.
• Improving the fleet: Raising vehicle safety standards and embracing new technologies.
• Thriving road users: Strengthening education, licensing, and enforcement, with a focus on vulnerable groups and risky behaviours (e.g., drink/drug driving, mobile phone use).
• Upgrading response: Improving emergency care, data collection, and support for victims.

Ken Skates, cabinet secretary for North Wales & transport, said: “Road safety is a cross-cutting priority at the heart of our transport strategy.

“It is essential for building an efficient, effective, fair and inclusive transport system, one that enables everyone in Wales to access employment, services, and education, supports thriving communities, and drives economic growth.

“Our approach to road safety is based on the principle that our life and health should not be compromised by our need to travel. To achieve this, we will use the Safe System approach to minimise risk and work towards Vision Zero, where there is no loss of life or serious injury on our roads.

“By maximising the benefits of partnership, we can truly deliver safer roads for everyone in Wales.”