The stretch includes a dangerous junction highlighted by a coroner in an inquest
Dave Langford, who tragically died – and family
A North Wales council wants to cut the speed limit along a 4km stretch that includes an “exceptionally dangerous” junction. David Paul Langford, from Llandudno, died in a crash on the A548 between Llanfair Talhaiarn and Llangernyw on May 11, 2024.
Mr Langford was riding his KTM motorcycle along the A548, approximately 1.2 miles north of Llangernyw and approximately four miles south-west of Llanfair Talhaiarn, Conwy, when the collision happened.
He was involved in a crash when a vehicle emerged from the Waterloo Hill junction, which had poor visibility. Mr Langford was tragically declared deceased at the scene, according to a prevention of future deaths report issued by the coroner.
Kate Robertson, assistant coroner for North Wales east and central, wrote to Conwy County Borough Council in December 2025 – following an inquest – urging them to take action. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
She said: “In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken.”
Witness evidence, heard during the inquest, indicated the junction is “exceptionally dangerous”, due to the excess shrubbery and foliage around a mirror to assist turning onto the A548. There were also concerns raised over the national speed limit of 60mph on the stretch.
Waterloo Hill Junction near Llangernyw
The prevention of future deaths report said: “It was also noted the stretch of road in question is subject to a national speed limit and it was a concern the high speed does not account for the dangerous junction at Waterloo Hill.”
Now Conwy council have proposed a Traffic Regulation Order to cut the speed to 40mph on a 4km stretch that includes this junction.
They said: “The Conwy County Borough Council proposes to make an Order under Sections 84(1)and (2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which will prohibit any person from driving any motor vehicle at a speed exceeding 40 miles per hour in the lengths of road specified in the Schedule below.”
Proposed section (blue) for reduced 40mph speed limit
The council is now holding a consultation on the proposed speed limit change.
Tributes were paid to Mr Langford following his tragic death, who was described as a “great guy” whose “daughter was his world”. He had worked in the kitchen at Queen Elizabeth Court in Llandudno.
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