RESIDENTS’ calls for action to address road safety concerns have finally been answered - much to a councillor’s delight.

Following ‘extensive engagement’ with the community and collaboration with Barnsley Council’s highways officers, several key improvements have been made.

Speed indicator devices (SIDs) have been installed at a so-called ‘cluster site’ - where there’s been a recorded history of speeding and collisions - on Mount Vernon Road and Mount Vernon Avenue, Worsbrough, following a previous SID fitment on nearby Genn Lane.

Councillor Jake Lodge, who represents the Worsbrough ward, told the Chronicle it’s been a long time coming but said he was thankful for the installation.

“The area’s had a history of speed-related incidents so I’m pleased they’ve been fitted,” he added.

“They do slow drivers down as they tell you how fast you’re travelling - obviously it’s non-enforceable but they’re proven to reduce speeds in built-up areas.

“I know residents are pleased as they’ve long been calling for action.

“It’s a cluster site, so the council knew that it was suffering with speed-related incidents.

“Things take time to organise, particularly with the recent election, but they were fitted last Friday and they’re going to be in-situ for four weeks.

“Residents have been clear that road safety is one of their top priorities, and I fully agree.

“These improvements are an important step forward and will make a huge difference - I will continue to stand up and speak up for further measures wherever they are needed.”

The council’s highways team previously said a ‘prevention is better than the cure’ approach has been adopted since more than £17m was ring-fenced to spend on Barnsley’s roads.

A council report said: “SIDs are traffic management tools that display the real-time speed of drivers.

“The SID gives a visual alert to road users of the speed limit in force on that road, promoting safer driving behaviour, increased awareness of speed limits, and enhanced road safety for all road users.

The main reason for deploying SIDs is to reduce speeding, enhance compliance with speed limits and improve overall road safety.

“By providing immediate feedback to drivers about their speed, SIDs aim to create a safer road environment.

“This in turn should reduce the likelihood of collisions.

“Where appropriate we’ll work with our communities and partners to investigate, educate and reinforce appropriate road user behaviour.

“Deploying SIDs in Barnsley will help us to deliver on the aims in our Safer Roads Strategy.”