Police will be out on the town's dual carriageways

POLICE will be out on the town's dual carriageways in a bid to deter speeding motorcyclists.

Specialist West Mercia units including motorcycle police will be on the Cloverleaf junction where the A448, A4189 and A441 dual carriageways meet on Sunday (March 17).

Officers will aim to act as a visible deterrent to speeders as well as using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology to identify vehicles illegally on the road.

Redditch district inspector Ian Joseph said in the warmer months or on nice weekends, roads off the Cloverleaf are busy with bikers testing their skills on the bends, racing up and down the carriageways and sometimes posting videos on YouTube.

“Sadly they are not always able to maintain control of their bikes and can often come off, with predictable and sometimes tragic results," he said.

“There is an obvious road safety issue which needs to be addressed for the benefit of all road users and that’s why have launched this operation.

"Action is also being taken in support of people living near the dual carriageways who have complained through their district and county councillors about the noise and the very obvious high speeds of the machines involved."

He added as part of the operation they will be ensuring motorbikes are not parked on the A448 over-bridge in breach of the clearway.

“We intend to continue with this initiative until the message gets through to the minority of motorcyclists causing the problems that their activities will not be tolerated here. It also demonstrates that we do listen to neighbourhood concerns and act on them where necessary," he said.

The Safer Roads Partnership will also be placing signs up at and near the Cloverleaf junction as part of its 'Think Bike' campaign, to raise awareness and encourage motorcyclists and motorist to look out for one and other.

The team is also promoting the 'Take Control' motorcycle skills enhancement course for bikers who want to gain more confidence and become a better rider.

The course is subsidised by the partnership so riders can get a half day course for £25 or full day for only £50.

Visit www.rmtnet.co.uk/take-control for more details.

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