Government strategy will make North Northampton roads safer, says MP
New road safety plans set out tougher standards for UK drivers
Last updated 8th Jan 2026
Northampton North MP Lucy Rigby has expressed her support to the UK government’s new Road Safety Strategy, which sets out plans to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65% by 2035.
The new government strategy announced on 6th January, includes plans for mandatory eye-tests for drivers over 70, a lower drink-drive limit in England and Wales, and a proposal to consult on learner drivers requiring up to six months of practice before taking their test.
The government says extra time for learner drivers will help them build vital skills, resulting in fewer road incidents. Statistics show nearly a quarter of deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads involve drivers aged 17 to 24, even though they make up around six percent of licence holders.
Other measures outlined the strategy include targeting illegal ‘ghost’ number plates, uninsured drivers, and vehicles without a current MOT.
The government also plans to roll out out 18 new safety technologies in cars and create a Road Safety Investigation Branch and Board to track how the measures are working.
Lucy Rigby, MP for Northampton North said in a statement:
“This strategy is a vital step towards preventing avoidable deaths and injuries, and it shows what can be achieved when government finally chooses to act.
‘’People in Northampton will be safer because of it.”
Labour’s Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, added: “Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that devastates families and communities. For too long, progress on road safety has stalled.
‘’This strategy marks a turning point.’’