Vehicles driving through the capital's Square Mile will soon be subject to a speed limit of 20MPH. The City of London's Court of Common Council approved the reduced speed limit on Thursday – and it could come into force as early as next spring.

The City of London Corporation says the reduced speed limit will cut road casualties by almost 10%, help to improve conditions for cyclists and pedestrians and have a minimal impact on air quality. But one influential business group in the City pointed out: "I wonder how many cars actually go faster than 20MPH through here anyway."

Welcoming the announcement, the Corporation's transportation committee chairman Michael Welbank said: "The City of London's street usage has changed dramatically over the last 10 years, with the number of cyclists tripling.

"The Corporation has adopted a road danger reduction plan containing a wide range of measures. The 20MPH speed limit is not a panacea but a further step in reducing casualties," he added.

Road Safety Foundation director Dr Steve Lawson also welcomed the reduced speed limit. He said: "At 20MPH people and vehicles can share the road and, if the worst happens, the human body should normally absorb crash impacts without death or permanently disabling injury."

Photo: "Duncan"

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