CUTTING speed limits from 70mph will not reduce the number of injury accidents on the A31 near Ringwood, claims the Highways Agency.

Instead the agency is to launch a driver education scheme later this year and is looking into putting up speed-activated signs warning motorists to stick to the limit.

In December, New Forest District Council Cabinet members agreed there should be a 50mph limit on the trunk road between Picket Post and Ringwood.

But within hours the Highways Agency, which is responsible for trunk roads, stepped in and said it had no intention of reducing the existing 70mph limit.

The agency blames the accidents on the A31 in the New Forest area on motorists who drive too close to the vehicle in front, and poor turning manoeuvres at junctions.