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Downward Trend in Road Deaths in Solihull Highlights Challenges Ahead

The number of deaths on Solihull’s roads continues to decline, but recent data indicates the borough may still fall short of its ambitious 2030 road safety goals. Statistics from the Department for Transport reveal nine fatalities occurred between 2022 and 2024—with six in 2022, none in 2023, and three so far in 2024. West Midlands Police reported one death in the borough up to July this year.

Road traffic collisions are categorized as fatal, serious, or slight. The total number of crashes decreased from 370 in 2022 to 340 in 2023, and further down to 312 in 2024. In 2025, there have been 112 reported crashes up to July.

Injury hotspots have been identified mainly in the western areas of the borough, with residents in Smith’s Wood, Kingshurst, and Shirley experiencing the highest casualty rates.

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While the council aims to cut the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads by 50% by 2030, a recent council report acknowledges the target remains challenging. It states, “Though collisions have been decreasing since 2013, the current rate of improvement is insufficient to meet the 2030 goal.”

The latest figures were discussed during Solihull Council’s Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board meeting on November 11. Paul Tovey, the council’s Head of Highway Management, highlighted the encouraging statistics: “We have low fatalities in Solihull, with single digits year-on-year, which is a positive position. Notably, 2023 was the first year with zero fatalities.”

Councillor Bob Grinsell expressed cautious optimism, saying, “While any fatality is too many, the downward trend in Solihull’s road deaths shows we are making progress.”

Scrutiny Board Chairman Councillor Richard Holt added, “This is a positive story of reduced serious accidents. Measures such as road calming have actively contributed to lowering risks in the borough.”

Despite the progress, the council acknowledges that sustained efforts are required to achieve the 2030 vision of safer roads for all residents.

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