Major roads may be redesigned with suicide prevention measures

New guidance released by National Highways and the UK Roads Leadership Group (UKRLG) will support the better design of major roads and bridges.

The UKRLG roads and bridges suicide prevention guidance was developed with input from the road sector and Samaritans and encourages planners and engineers to incorporate features that could act as a deterrent. 

Nicola Tweedie, National Highways’ suicide prevention lead, said: “Around 50 suspected suicides are estimated to occur on motorways and major A-roads each year, accounting for approximately 20 per cent of all deaths on our network.

“The tragic impact of suicide goes far beyond numbers and statistics. Each life lost represents a person, a family and a community left devastated.

"By considering suicide risk early in the planning process, we can help save lives on our roads."

The guidance marks a significant step in recognising the role of infrastructure in suicide prevention, with plans including design changes such as modifications to parapets and barriers to restrict access.

It was published on World Suicide Prevention Day. 

Elizabeth Pettersen, high risk locations programme manager at Samaritans said: “Suicide is not inevitable, and together we can help prevent it.

"The road sector has an important role to play in making sure suicide prevention is considered at every stage, from design through to maintenance.

"Samaritans is proud to work in strategic partnership with National Highways and we welcome the launch of this much needed guidance.

"It’s important that this is now implemented across the road industry to ensure fewer lives are lost on the strategic road network.”

The news comes after a string of welfare incidents at bridges on the A12 near Colchester.

A givernment spokesperson added: "By taking early steps to make infrastructure safer, we can protect lives across the country.

"This new guidance gives those responsible for our roads and bridges the chance to work together to help prevent suicide.

"We hope the whole of the UK road sector embraces this guidance as part of their planning, maintenance and renewal, so fewer lives are lost on our roads."