MOTORISTS’ calls for a review of the new 40mph limit on the Wessex Way have been refused after a huge drop in accidents.

They wrote deputations to Bournemouth council opposing the decision but the stretch of road is on course for a 79 per cent drop in crashes this year.

The reduction from 50mph was brought in as a trial between County Gates and just east of St Paul’s Roundabout. It has now been made permanent.

A Facebook group set up in opposition attracted more than 9,000 followers and two motorists wrote to the Environment and Transport Panel ahead of Tuesday’s meeting, but did not attend in person.

Ian Belchamber said speed was a factor in just 10 per cent of crashes and wrote: “Slowing down traffic unnecessarily increases journey times, pollution, traffic density, lateness, stress and danger.”

Another motorist, whose name was not given, questioned the data behind the trial and the decision.

“At one point, I received an email from Planning and Transport advising me there were no accidents or casualties between November 2010 and January 2011,” the driver said.

The panel considered setting up a task and finish group to review the decision.

But it decided to only write letters in reply after hearing from cabinet member for transport Cllr Michael Filer.

He said: “The five year average shows that for accidents, the average was 29.

“In 2011, after six months, we have had three accidents.”

He said he was confident the council’s ‘conscientious’ team had the right information, adding: “I have no doubt that the right decision was taken.”

Cllr Dennis Gritt said: “I can’t see any massive demonstrations or people saying they are not going to pay their poll tax over this issue.

“The motorists had their opportunity to come here. If it was such a burning issue, I would be here – anybody would.”

Council leader Cllr Peter Charon said: “I think these people are trying to use the panel to overturn what was a legitimate cabinet decision.”