A signs-only 20 mph speed limit in principally for residential streets in Radstock and Westfield is being proposed by B&NES Council to improve road safety. Local people are being given the chance to have their say about the idea in a consultation that runs until 21st December. A leaflet will be distributed shortly to every household in the proposed 20 mph area.
The Council is investing £500,000 into safer speed limits across the district. Radstock and Westfield are the next areas being given the opportunity to give their view. Most roads would be part of the speed limit, although some are proposed to remain 30 mph, e.g. some of the existing main routes into Radstock.
Cllr Roger Symonds (Lib-Dem, Combe Down), Cabinet Member for Transport, said, "People now have the opportunity to have their say in Radstock and Westfield about the idea of a 20 mph limit on many of their streets.
"The statistics are on our side. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents estimates that a pedestrian has a 90% chance of surviving being hit by a car at 20 mph, falling to a 50% chance at 30 mph and to a 10% chance at 40 mph."
The concept of 20 mph has been welcomed previously by the local police. Chief Inspector Simon Ellis, Avon and Somerset Police, said: "Generally, we welcome the concept of 20 mph in built-up areas. Reducing the speed of motorists in built-up areas has to be a good thing and I have no doubts that it will make these areas safer places. I am hoping that drivers will take responsibility for the speed of their vehicles and adjust their driving habits accordingly. My officers will work alongside the Council, ensuring we raise awareness of the new speed limits and encouraging drivers to embrace and adhere to the new speed limits."
There is further information about the timetable and proposed order for introducing the limits on the Council's website on http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/20mphspeedlimit">www.bathnes.gov.uk/20mphspeedlimit or email [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01225 39 40 41.
The informal consultation takes place prior to a formal Traffic Regulation Order where people will again have the chance to have their say.
No humps or bumps will be introduced with the proposed limits. The scheme primarily covers residential streets, not main roads, and will avoid excessive signage.