Introduction of more 20MPH zones in urban areas and on built up village streets is being encouraged in new Department for Transport guidance published last week. ‘Setting local speed limits’ (DfT circular 01/2013) also says 40MPH should be considered on rural A, B and C roads with many bends or substantial adjacent development.

“Traffic authorities are asked to keep their speed limits under review… and consider the introduction of more 20MPH limits and zones over time in urban areas and built up village streets that are primarily residential to ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cyclists,” the circular says.

Lower speed limits will also help encourage more people to walk and take to their bikes with consequent health benefits as well as helping reduce traffic congestion, the circular says.

Limits of 40MPH on rural routes “should be considered where there are many bends, junctions or accesses, substantial development and a strong environmental or landscape reason,” it suggests.

The department stresses that 20MPH zones require traffic calming measures like speed bumps and chicanes or repeater speed limit signing and/or roundel road markings to be effective. And crucially they also need local support to be successful.

CIHT responded to the “Setting local speed limits” consultation and was represented on the steering group overseeing the project. “The Institution welcomes this circular and the guidance it provides as continuing to provide a sound basis for setting local speed limits,” a spokesman said.

“But while the guidance provides useful advice regarding 20MPH zones and limits, much of the reference to limits relate to the Portsmouth scheme. Given the limited experience of installing limits and questions raised over the Portsmouth results this area of the document needs to be kept under review as further experience and results are collected.”

A new speed limit appraisal tool has been produced alongside the circular to help local authorities assess the full costs and benefits of any proposed local speed limit schemes including quality of life. It can be accessed at www.gov.uk/government/publications/speed-limit-appraisal-tool

The new guidance replaces DfT Circular 01/2006. More at www.gov.uk/government/speeches/local-speed-limits

(Photo: Albert Bridge)

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