Salt lick trial launched at animal accident blackspot B3078 Roger Penny Way

SALT licks are being used in an effort to draw livestock away from a New Forest road notorious for animal accidents

The trial scheme, led by the Commoners’ Defence Association (CDA) with support from Natural England, has involved the installation of temporary salt containers near the B3078 Roger Penny Way.

Set back around 135 metres from the traffic, it is hoped they will attract animals away from the road.

During winter livestock often lick the salty grit used to de-ice the carriageway.

As reported in the A&T, the route has one of the worst safety records for animals in the New Forest.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into whether average speed cameras could be installed on the 40mph route.

CDA committee member and project lead Bill Howells said: “I would like to thank all the relevant organisations who have given us consent to trial the salt licks, hopefully it will make a difference to animal behaviour and accident numbers.

“Although the new salt licks may draw some animals away from the road, many will still be near to or on roads across the Forest. These animals have right of way on the roads.”

“Even with new measures in place, we still ask all drivers in the Forest to drive to the conditions, expect the unexpected and prepare to stop.”

The salt will be provided in big lumps to avoid spillage. Once the weather improves, the containers will be removed.

To measure the success of the trial initiative, the consumption of salt and the number of animals seen near the roadside could be monitored.

Cameras could also be installed to record which animals are visiting the containers, as they are also popular with wild deer.

All accidents on New Forest roads involving ponies, cows, donkeys, pigs or sheep should be reported to the police immediately.