Lowering speed limits consultation - have your say

Many of you will have seen in the news (see Independent reporting for example) that there are proposals to give local authorities more scope to introduce 20mph limits in residential areas and also reduced speed limits on rural roads.

At this time the guidance issued by the dft is in draft form and is out for public consultation
https://consultation.dft.gov.uk/dft/speed-limit-circular this web page has a link to the draft proposal and a link allowing you to express your views. The consultation is open to 5th October 2012.

I have had a look at the proposals and in the context of our village and our aims have drawn out the following key points

1. Speed limits should be evidence based and must consider a number of factors (e.g. accident rates, use by vulnerable users, road purpose, communities)
2. It recognises the need for the limit to be reflective of the road condition (e.g. road geometry) and the purpose. It does not talk much about calming, but does recognise that factors other than speed limits need to be considered in managing traffic speed.
3. There is talk of balancing the needs of non motorised road users and many references to considering the needs of vulnerable road users (e.g. cyclists, pedestrians). They also want to encourage more walkers and cyclists.
4. There is recognition that roads also serve the needs of local communities and residents.
5. As regards 20mph limits there seems to be more of a leaning towards zones (requires calming measures) rather than limits. It suggest 20mph limits alone are only effective where speeds are already not more than 24mph
6. For rural roads there is a useful guidance table. From my interpretation this would certainly result in lower recommended speed limits for the approach roads into Stoke Golding.
7. They are currently developing an online tool (Road Appraisal Tool) to help local authorities assess the costs and benefits of proposed schemes

The guidance says little about the process for reviewing speed limits - i.e. when and how does a speed limit get reviewed? The text says "Traffic authorities are asked to:
- keep their speed limits under review with changing circumstances;
- consider the introduction of more 20 mph limits and zones, over
time, in urban areas, to ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cyclists, using the criteria in Section 6
It also says that "local residents may also express their concerns or desire for a lower speed limit and these comments should be considered". .There does not appear to be any specific funding or any specific timescales

I would encourage readers to review the proposals and submit their own consultation comments.