Edinburgh is drawing up plans for new 20MPH speed limits. A public consultation has been launched by the city council following a successful pilot scheme in south Edinburgh.

The City of Edinburgh Council now proposes to introduce the reduced speed limit in the city centre, main shopping streets and residential areas. The consultation closes on Friday 17 October.

Transport Convener councillor Lesley Hinds said: “This consultation is a very important step in our journey towards a culture change in the capital regarding speed limits.

“To reduce speeds, we will concentrate mainly on signage, although physical measures like pedestrian islands may be required on some residential streets where speeds don’t fall sufficiently with a signs and paint only approach.”

The Council said it expected the introduction of 20MPH speed limits to encourage more considerate driving, leading to safer streets for all road users, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. This, it added, will help to make sustainable transport options more attractive, contributing to less traffic congestion, better health and less noise.

The Edinburgh People’s Survey in 2012 showed a sizeable majority in favour of 20MPH restrictions in the areas currently being considered, with 67% supporting the speed limit for all city centre streets.

Members of the public have been encouraged to take part in the consultation via the Council's website or by attending one of several planned public meetings, roadshows and drop in sessions being held over the coming weeks.

(Photo: Edinburgh Greens)

To return to the newsletter, please close this window.