The speed limit could be cut to 40mph along parts of Norfolk's main coast road.

Norfolk County Council is carrying out preliminary consultations with local councils over bringing in the new limit along the A149 between Hunstanton and Sheringham.

A spokesman at County Hall said: “Following consultation with the parishes along the route we are working with them and the local councillors to find a workable solution to move forwards.

"Any changes will be subject to a full public consultation in the future.”

READ MORE: Drivers face delays and diversions on A149 from Monday

The police, fire and ambulance services have also been asked for their view on the changes.

Eastern Daily Press: Average speed cameras were installed after the speed limit was cut from 60 to 50mph on the A149 between Babingley and DersinghamAverage speed cameras were installed after the speed limit was cut from 60 to 50mph on the A149 between Babingley and Dersingham (Image: Chris Bishop)

Any new speed limit requires a Traffic Regulation Order to be made, which involves a statutory process of consultation and public advertisement. 

The process can take between a year and 18 months to complete.

While there are 30mph restrictions where the A149 passes through towns and villages, the national speed limit of 60mph currently applies along parts of the 35-mile stretch which pass through open countryside.

The single-carriageway road sees heavy traffic at times during the summer months, particularly over bank holidays and when there are large open-air events such as concerts at Sandringham and Holkham.

During 2020, it saw four serious and eight slight collisions.

The speed limit was cut from 60 to 50mph on the A149 between Babingley and Dersingham two years ago.

Eastern Daily Press: Bank holiday traffic queuing on the A149 through Hunstanton Bank holiday traffic queuing on the A149 through Hunstanton (Image: Chris Bishop)

Average speed cameras were installed to enforce the reduction.

Some 11 responses were received in favour at a prior public consultation and 42 against.

The southern section between Babingley and Alderman George Pratt Roundabout with the B1440 has had 25 personal injury accidents over the past 10 years. Six were classed as serious and there was one fatality.

The crashes included a collision involving the late Duke of Edinburgh in January 2019, when the prince's Land Rover overturned.