MPs team up to press for safety improvements to dangerous M6 junction
Local MPs Tim Farron and Lizzi Collinge have written a joint letter to National Highways, asking for urgent action to improve safety at junction 37 of the M6 between Kendal and Sedbergh.
The A684 flyover bridge at junction 37 has become an accident blackspot in recent years, with numerous serious and fatal incidents.
In May last year, a man in his 80s died and several other people were seriously hurt following a crash. And last Sunday (28th July), a motorcycle passenger died and the rider was seriously injured in a vehicle collision.
In their letter to National Highways Chief Executive Nick Harris, the MPs reported that some Sat Navs tell drivers travelling North on the M6 to take the slip road, drive across the A684 and then drive back onto the M6.
The MPs have asked if ‘STOP’ signs could be introduced at the junction to prevent drivers from travelling straight across the A684.
Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale said: “It’s absolutely tragic news that a passenger died at the weekend at this junction and my thoughts are with their family and friends at this time.
“In recent months and years, there have been several accidents and many near misses at this junction. It’s absolutely critical that this accident blackspot is addressed.
“That’s why I’m working with the new MP for Sedbergh to get National Highways to look at this as an urgent priority.”
Lizzi Collinge, MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale said: “People in Sedbergh and beyond are extremely concerned about the safety of this junction, with lots of them telling me about near misses and bad collisions.
"Last weekend we saw another tragedy and I can't imagine the pain of the family, especially knowing that this issue has been raised by local people for many years.
"I'm determined that Tim and I will work together on this, along with local councillors, until we get action."