Residents in a north Wales town are advocating for increased signage following a tragic incident in which a small herd of goats was struck by a vehicle, resulting in the loss of four goats. The accident occurred earlier this month on the A470 at Wormhout Way in Llandudno, Conwy county.
The goats, which have been roaming Llandudno and Craig y Don since the pandemic lockdowns, migrated from the Great Orme to the area’s empty streets. Despite the council’s use of highways-approved wild animal signs on its roads, concerns persist regarding the safety of both drivers and the roaming goats.
Wendy Keenan, a grandmother and animal lover, is leading a campaign urging the council to install more visible signs warning drivers of the potential presence of goats on the roads. She emphasized the need for proactive measures to protect both the animals and motorists, particularly as the accident occurred along a route used by schoolchildren.
Acknowledging the significance of the goats to Llandudno’s charm, Keenan stressed the importance of safeguarding their welfare and minimizing the risk of further accidents. Conwy council has been collaborating with various stakeholders to devise a plan to manage the goats and reduce conflicts with residents.
Councillor Louise Emery explained the challenges in signage placement, citing the necessity for official highway-approved signs. While acknowledging the seasonal presence of goats in town, she emphasized the council’s commitment to ensuring road safety.
A spokeswoman for Conwy County Council affirmed their efforts to relocate goats to the Great Orme when necessary and reiterated the presence of animal warning signs along roadways to alert drivers of potential hazards.