Donald Mitchell

I am Patricia Morgan Area Coroner, for the coroner area of South Wales Central.

On 31 December 2020 I commenced an investigation into the death of Donald John  Drummond MITCHELL . The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest 17/01/2025 . The conclusion of the inquest was Road Traffic Collision. The medical Cause of Death was:- 1a   Blunt Head Injury, including Transection of both Internal Carotid Arteries 1b 1c II

These were recorded as :- Donald John Drummond Mitchell was cycling from his place of work to his home on 17  December 2020. Whilst cycling along the A48 road in an eastbound direction, between the Laleston roundabout and the junction of Well Street, Mr Mitchell was struck by a vehicle  travelling in the same direction. Mr Michell suffered catastrophic head injuries as a  consequence of the collision and was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene. Conclusion: Road Traffic Collision

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. In  my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the  circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows. (1)  Between 2015 and 2024, along the A48 between Pyle and Ewenny which is a 5.75 mile stretch of road, there have been 4 fatal collisions and 8 serious collisions.  Of these collisions, 5 involved cyclists. (2) On the basis of the evidence of the nature of the road between Ewenny  roundabout and Pyle roundabout (which varies between a single and dual  carriageway), the speed limit in place (which varies between 40mph and up to  national speed limit), the current absence of an active travel route or modifications  to the route to specifically cater for cyclist safety, along with the data available as to the number of collisions along this route relating to cyclist, I remain concerned that  there is a risk of future deaths occurring along this route unless action is taken.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you and your organisation have the power to take such action.