Scott Peters, who has lived on Banks Road, Sandbanks for six years, has said the situation has deteriorated significantly on the road and nearby car park, particularly in the evenings when modified cars use the road ‘like a drag racing track’
Scott said: “It’s getting worse and worse. Every evening after 7pm, we see cars speeding up and down the road like it’s a race circuit. It’s terrifying for residents.”
(Image: Newsquest) After getting frustrated with the increase of incidents, Scott, 42, has launched a petition urging the council to implement speed restrictions in key areas throughout Sandbanks, including Banks Road and the adjacent car park.
He is calling for the introduction of lower speed limits and speed humps, particularly in residential areas and locations with heavy pedestrian traffic.
He said: “Speed limits have been proven to be one of the most effective measures in reducing traffic accidents and fatalities.”
Scott also shared a harrowing personal experience, describing a near-miss incident involving his wife and nine week-old baby.
He said: “My partner and I were walking home from dinner with our nine-week-old baby in a pushchair. As we were crossing the road and it was completely safe to do so, a car suddenly came hurtling around the corner.
“We think it was going between 70 and 80 miles an hour. I had to push the pram off the road to avoid being hit. The car missed us by just two metres. If it had hit us, we’d be dead and that’s no exaggeration.”
Scott plans to gather as many signatures as possible before presenting the petition to his local MP.
Richard Herrett (Image: Andy Beeson-Brackstone/ BCP Council) Councillor Richard Herrett, BCP Council Cabinet Member for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations, said: “We are aware of concerns raised about potential irresponsible and dangerous driving in this area.
“Our team undertake data-led approach when prioritising safety improvements and regularly review all collisions that result in casualties across the conurbation, as well as sites where safety concerns have been raised by members of the public. As it stands, none of the roads here currently meet our criteria for further measures.
“Factors that may be considered during such a review include the frequency of road collisions in the area and their severity and cause, plus the geometry of the road and the impact of any engineering required to promote lower speeds.
“Local residents may wish to explore the option of applying for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to support potential local road safety enhancements.”