Speed limit between Swafield and Knapton in Norfolk to fall

Alfie Brown, from North Walsham, died when he was knocked off his bike by a Ford Ranger truck on the B1145 Knapton Road, near the village of Swafield, in August last year. Police are still investigating the incident.

Now, the speed limit on the road between Swafield and Knapton will be reduced from 60mph to 40mph.

Alfie Brown, from North Walsham (Image: Courtesy of family)

READ MORE: Swafield tragedy as teenage cyclist killed in hit-and-run

As well as the speed limit being reduced, a priority system will be put in place over the bridge entering Swafield – with priority given to vehicles leaving the village.

There will also be additional village gateways and signage installed, making 30mph signs in the village more visible.

The speed limit at the narrow Pond Land in Knapton is also set to be halved – from 60mph down to 30mph.

North Norfolk MP Duncan Baker said: "I promised everyone during my major public meeting that I would not stop working until we saw safety improved along the B1145.

North Norfolk MP Duncan Baker (Image: Newsquest)

"I'm so pleased to be able to say this will now happen. This is a huge piece of news, and will directly impact so many in Swafield, Knapton, and all the people who regularly use the road.

"Safety is paramount and I know that these additional measures will make the road much safer for all.

"A huge thank you to councillor Ed Maxfield, councillor Peter Neatherway, and Tim and Boris from Swafield Parish Council for all their hard work to help get this across the line.

"I'm so proud to have helped secure this."

READ MORE: Alfie Brown inquest awaits details from police investigation

Boris Konoshenko, chairman of Swafield and Bradfield Parish Council, added: “After many months of close collaboration between David Allfrey from Norfolk County Council, our MP Duncan Baker and Swafield and Bradfield Parish Council, we’re delighted that it's been possible to incorporate our villager's input into a comprehensive revamp of the highway plans for Swafield and Knapton.

Boris Konoshenko, Swafield and Bradifield Parish Council chairman (Image: Adam Barker)

"We’re convinced this will dramatically improve the safety in our villages and reduce the risk of speeding and the likelihood of future accidents.”

At an inquest review into Alfie's death in February, Norfolk Coroner's Court heard how a full hearing would proceed once the police investigation was complete.

A man in his 50s was arrested on suspicion of causing Alfie’s death and has been re-bailed until May 10.