Norfolk's roads saw a rise in fatal and serious injuries last year, even as the county's Road Safety Partnership continued a broad programme of prevention, education and enforcement activity, the Countywide Community Safety Partnership Scrutiny Sub Panel was told on 27 April 2026.

The Chair, Cllr Brian Long, pressed officers on whether different or more intensive speed-reduction measures should be considered, particularly on rural roads where risks are highest. Alex Cliff, Highway Network and Digital Innovation Manager at Norfolk County Council, said increases in casualties were influenced by multiple factors, including higher traffic volumes and changes in the way data is reported.

Officers pointed to the Fatal Review Panel, which examines every fatal collision in Norfolk to identify contributing factors and inform future prevention work. The Strategic Road Safety Partnership — made up of seven agencies including Norfolk Constabulary, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, NCC Highways and the East of England Ambulance Service — monitors collision data on a continuous basis.

The panel also heard concerns about enforcement gaps around newer vehicle types. Members raised worries about high-powered or modified electric bicycles capable of reaching dangerous speeds, and small electric quadricycles, with officers acknowledging that legislation in this area is still evolving. Richard Park, Head of Criminal Justice for Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies, agreed to seek advice from policing colleagues and report back on the legal position and enforcement arrangements for modified e-bikes.

On speeding, Nicole Ollett, Traffic Justice Service Manager, told the panel that reports from community Speed Watch groups are reviewed, with follow-up monitoring carried out to collect further data and inform enforcement decisions.

Residents in Great Yarmouth and Gorleston were also mentioned during the meeting, with a panel member noting that some communities felt unheard after recent highway schemes were implemented. Officers acknowledged that communication after scheme delivery was a key issue and highlighted existing routes for residents to raise concerns, including dedicated area highway engineers and the Parish Partnership Scheme.

A motorcycle safety campaign, involving Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, is planned for later in 2026, with a focus on personal protective equipment.