Campaigners had wanted a speed camera installed

The Highways Agency has said it is going to change the A21 at Flimwell from a dual to a single carriageway.

For years campaigners have called for safety improvements prompted by the death of Ann Russell killed in a multi-car crash on the route.

The agency said it was also reducing the speed limit to 60mph from 70mph.

Unfortunately we have lost quite a lot of lives, but hopefully in the future that is going to end Valerie McGuaine, A21 Action Group

Since 1999 there have been 35 serious accidents on the A21 at Flimwell.

Bill Russell, Ann's husband, said: "You cannot hear a siren without worrying and now my son is driving as well.

"You are constantly thinking when will it happen again because you keep seeing it."

Campaigners had wanted a speed camera installed, but the Highways Agency said that was not the answer.

Colin McArthur from the Highways Agency said: "This year we will be reducing the dual carriageway to a single lane carriageway.

'Something to celebrate'

"We will be reducing the speed limit down to 60 mph.

"We will also be installing an interactive sign to raise people's awareness of the junction layout.

Slip roads which cross the carriageway will also be take out, the agency said.

Valerie McGuaine, from the A21 Action Group, said: "We have waited four long years to arrive at this point and we have something to celebrate indeed.

"Unfortunately we have lost quite a lot of lives but hopefully in the future that is going to end."