Vision Zero

On average, there are 10 vehicle-related deaths a year in the Wakefield district. The number of people hurt or seriously injured is also on the increase. 

To prevent future road traffic deaths and injuries we have adopted Vision Zero. It is an internationally recognised approach to improving road safety.

The Vision Zero strategy aims to reduce road deaths and accidents to zero and marks a new direction in how road danger is reduced.

The focus of the new strategy will be on putting the needs of people and communities above those of vehicles across the district. It is a move away from the traditional approach of focusing efforts on roads where road deaths and accidents are more likely to take place.

Instead, there will be many initiatives across the board to make streets safer. They include better pedestrian and cycling routes and facilities, speed limit reductions, and promoting safer walking, cycling and links to public transport. There are also measures being put in place at known casualty sites to reduce the number of people being killed or seriously injured.

To prevent future road traffic deaths and injuries, the Council wants to introduce Vision Zero and the five principles that underpin it. We aim to create streets that are safe for walking and cycling.

The five key areas that make up Vision Zero are: 

1. safer speeds
2. safer vehicles
3. safer roads
4. safer behaviours
5. improved learning from collision investigations.  

We are developing a plan for our district, and we're also part of West Yorkshire Vision Zero, led by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. 

We are working alongside the other councils in the region, West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, National Highways, Brake, and road safety campaigners. 

Find out more about the West Yorkshire approach on their website.