News / Transport
100 roads could have speed limits reduced to 20mph
Around 100 residential roads across Bristol where motor vehicles are currently allowed to drive at 30mph would benefit from new 20mph speed limits according to a newly published study.
These streets make up roughly five per cent of the city’s road network but account for 30 per cent of serious and fatal collisions.
The analysis of road safety along the roads currently with a 30mph speed limit will be considered by councillors ahead of proposals for potential 20mph limits to be published, with a public consultation taking place before any changes happen.
Ed Plowden, chair of Bristol City Council’s transport & connectivity committee, said: “Deaths on Bristol’s roads are unacceptable and avoidable.
“We want to live in a city where children feel safe to travel to school independently, where the air we breathe has not been polluted by unnecessary acceleration and harsh braking, and where all road users, whether on two wheels or more, can share our highways safely.
“We have a duty to explore options for improving road safety and to take an evidence-based approach to decisions which impact our roads.
“I look forward to considering the detail of these proposals with colleagues on the committee ahead of seeking the views of residents to inform future decisions.”
Department for Transport guidelines on setting local speed limits published in 2024 says: “Benefits of 20mph may include encouragement of healthier modes of travel, such as walking and cycling, and with potential environmental benefits – although research here paints a mixed picture.
“Authorities should, however, take into account the disadvantages that slower speeds can bring in terms of delays to drivers and bus users, congestion, potential impacts on air pollution and impacts on local businesses.”
For more information about the ‘Bristol’s better at 20’ campaign, visit www.bristol.gov.uk/20mph
Main photo: Martin Booth
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