Safety review of M65 demanded after spate of crashes in Lancashire

A highway’s safety needs an urgent overhaul after a series of fatal crashes, a councilor has said.

Noordad Aziz, deputy leader of Hyndburn Council, called for an investigation into the accident rate of the M65 in East Lancashire, with the aim of improving it.

Rather than focusing solely on the stretch in his municipality – between junctions five and eight – Mr Aziz wants the review to examine the entire highway, including the lighting provision.

His call was backed by Labor council leader Zak Khan.

Mr Aziz said he wanted the council to ask Highways England and Lancashire County Council for “an urgent review of the overall safety of the M65”.

He said: “Given the frequency of recent accidents, including those occurring during the day and at night, it is essential to assess this stretch for potential safety improvements, including but not limited to lighting.

“This review should aim to improve overall road safety, reduce the risks of accidents and ensure the well-being of all road users.”