PLANS to reduce the number of crashes at the Culverton crossroads on the A4010 were unveiled at a public consultation in Lacey Green.

The exhibition, at the Millennium Hall, in Main Road, follows calls from residents to reduce the number of crashes at the junctions with Woodway and Icknield Way.

Between January 1, 1999 and May 31, 2005, there have been 15 accidents at the crossroads, resulting in 22 injuries.

The plans revealed by Bucks County Council will see the section of the A4010 around the crossroads widened to include two areas for traffic waiting to turn right into Woodway and Icknield Way.

Ian McGowan, team leader of collision investigation and analysis/local safety schemes at Bucks County Council explained that the majority of collisions at the crossroads were shunts by cars coming up behind vehicles waiting to turn right into Woodway.

He added: "Our aim is to reduce the number of collisions and we believe this is the best solution."

The plans drawn up by a steering group of officers from Bucks County Council, Wycombe District Council and The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty would also see Woodway curved to the left to give drivers greater visibility and time to judge oncoming traffic from Princes Risborough.

The speed limit at the junctions will be reduced from national limit down to 50mph, and the section leading into Princes Risborough will be reduced to 30mph.

Many residents had wanted to see a roundabout put in, an idea that had previously been discussed by the council.

However, Mr McGowan said the roundabout scheme would have cost in the region of £1.6million instead of £400,000 outlay expected for the new proposed scheme.

He added: "I think this scheme will see a greater reduction in the number of accidents and allow the traffic to flow."

Cllr Paul Rogerson, Wycombe district councillor for Lacey Green, said the plans were an improvement on the current road layout.

He said: "If this proposal deals with the crashes then I don't think anyone will mind."

Further public consultations are due to take place in Princes Risborough Community Centre, Stratton Road, on Wednesday, September 21, from 2pm until 8pm and Saturday, September 24, from 10am until 4pm.

Should the proposals be accepted, construction work is due to commence in August next year.