Coroner Highlights Persistent Safety Concerns on Road Following Fatal Collision

A coroner has stated that “fundamental” safety issues persist on a particular road, nearly 18 months after a teenage boy was fatally struck by a speeding drink-driver. Billy Lardner, aged 16, lost his life on June 30, 2023, after being hit on Parley Lane in Hurn, Dorset. Tyrone Franklin, a resident of Poole, received an 11-year prison sentence in January. His Honda Civic collided with Billy at a speed exceeding 80mph (129km/h) within a designated 40mph (64km/h) zone. Senior Dorset coroner Rachael Griffin noted that despite discussions between Dorset Police and BCP Council regarding concerns about the road, which is situated near Bournemouth Airport, no measures have been implemented thus far. Mrs. Griffin indicated that the increasing volume of passengers at the airport, coupled with inadequate public transport and pedestrian access, continues to expose individuals to risk. She explained that numerous pedestrians accessing the airport are dropped off or picked up on Parley Lane, a location lacking a layby or designated drop-off area. Furthermore, she identified problems on Hurn Court Lane, where the absence of a public footpath compels pedestrians to walk on the grass. “This is dangerous as it is not a stable, safe public pathway and could lead to people falling into the road or being struck by vehicles, especially as people pull suitcases along,” she added. She also remarked, “The airport has erected signs stating these is no pedestrian access, however, these are widely ignored.” Her concerns were formally communicated to Bournemouth Airport and BCP Council’s chief executive, Graham Farrant, subsequent to her issuance of a Report to Prevent Future Deaths. Franklin, who was 25 at the time of his sentencing, pleaded guilty to charges of causing Billy’s death by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene, and driving without insurance. Bournemouth Crown Court was informed that he had consumed three pints and two double whiskeys prior to operating the vehicle. He absconded on foot and was apprehended at a friend’s residence the day following Billy’s death. Drew, Billy’s brother, recounted that Franklin had been travelling at “an absolutely insane speed” before the collision. Their father, Andrew, announced in January that a legacy fund established in Billy’s name had accumulated tens of thousands of pounds to provide opportunities for underprivileged children. He further mentioned that 400 individuals attended the funeral for the “most handsome, beautiful young man.” Judge Susan Evans KC conveyed to Franklin that his actions had inflicted devastation upon Billy’s family that was “beyond words.”