IT seems like every month brings a new tragedy to the Standard.


This week the news is especially sad after two men, neither from the area, lost their lives on a road that is never far away from the headlines.


Road traffic collisions are becoming a feature of life in the Cotswolds.


Whether it is a skidding motorcyclist, a car leaving the road or a fatal accident – these events are becoming all too common.


Councillors are right to demand action on a road that is rapidly becoming notorious.


Other parts of Gloucestershire don’t have the same numbers of fatal accidents.


Indeed, much of the rest of the country comes off relatively lightly compared to the Cotswolds.
But it surely doesn’t have to be this way.


With a concerted effort – be that better education, more signs or even a large infrastructure project – things can and have to get better.


Creating a dual-carriageway, for instance, will always be unpopular with people who want the Cotswolds to stay the same, but if it could save lives then it should be considered.


Councillors have made the first moves, and that is important, but now they must follow through and bring the results their ward members voted them in to produce.


A scrutiny group will not save lives unless is matched by a will to make a real change, even if that does mean spending money.