The countdown has begun for the implementation of 20mph speed limits across extensive sections of the road network in Wales this weekend. As this new regulation takes effect, it has raised a multitude of questions. In this article, we aim to address nine key questions regarding these 20mph limits.
Is it a universal 20mph limit?
- No, it’s not. The term “blanket 20mph” has been widely used, causing some confusion. Firstly, this change doesn’t apply to roads currently designated as 30mph. It’s crucial to clarify that iconic routes like the A55 won’t be reduced to 20mph. Additionally, it’s not a uniform speed limit for all existing 30mph areas. While these alterations will affect most 30mph roads, some will remain unchanged.
- What does this legislation entail?
- This legislation alters the default speed limit for restricted roads, which primarily encompass residential areas and bustling pedestrian streets with streetlights. However, not all 30mph roads fall into the restricted category, and these will maintain their 30mph limit, clearly marked as such. Moreover, Welsh authorities possess the discretion to establish ‘exceptions’ where they deem 20mph unsuitable, allowing these areas to retain the 30mph limit.
- Why is this change happening?
- The Welsh Government has based this decision on compelling evidence indicating that lower speeds result in fewer accidents and less severe injuries. They stress that pedestrians are five times less likely to be fatally injured when struck by a vehicle moving at 20mph compared to 30mph. Furthermore, 20mph zones contribute to improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and a healthier lifestyle by encouraging more walking and cycling, ultimately creating safer, more equitable road spaces for all users.
- How much will this initiative cost?
- The implementation of the scheme is estimated to cost £32.3 million, primarily allocated for the installation of 30,000 new signs, 5,000 posts, and updated road markings. The main financial benefits, as outlined in the regulatory impact assessment, stem from enhanced road safety, projected to yield savings of £1.4 billion over 30 years for police, hospitals, and ambulance services.
- Will this impact the economy?
- Slower commute times for workers and leisure drivers are predicted to cost the economy £4.7 billion over the span of 30 years. The business sector, including delivery drivers, may incur an additional loss of £1.6 billion. However, it’s essential to note that the assessment acknowledges the use of raw data and there is considerable uncertainty in these estimates.
- Can I check which roads will be affected?
- Yes, you can. The most efficient way to determine the changes in your vicinity or along your daily route is to consult the Welsh Government’s interactive data map. This map provides drivers with a clear overview of the alterations in their respective areas.
- Which political parties support the 20mph speed limit?
- The initiative to introduce the 20mph limit has been spearheaded by the Labour-led Welsh Government. It has consistently garnered support from both Labour and Plaid Cymru members during votes. However, responses from Welsh Conservatives have varied. While most members backed the proposal for trials leading up to the default 20mph limit in 2020, all 15 Tory members who voted opposed the legislation for the 20mph limit in 2022.
- How will enforcement be carried out?
- The Welsh Government has allocated an annual funding contribution of £2,555,500 to GoSafe, with an additional £600,000 designated for 20mph “roadside engagement.” GoSafe has assured that there will be no reduction in the level of enforcement they provide, but cameras will be adjusted to reflect the new limit in relevant areas. Roadside education initiatives will also be increased, focusing on community engagement and behavioural adjustments among drivers.
- How has this worked in other places?
- Transport for London (TfL) released data this year, indicating a significant reduction in collisions following the implementation of 20mph speed limits on key roads. Collisions decreased by 25%, and those resulting in death or serious injury also dropped by 25%. However, it’s important to note that this implementation was selective at specific sites.
- While Wales is the first UK nation to introduce a default 20mph limit, other countries, such as Spain, have already implemented similar measures, resulting in reduced road fatalities, albeit with some fluctuation due to pandemic-related factors.
- When does this change take effect?
- The new rules will be in force starting from September 17th 2023.
Transport for London are also launching a further 40 miles of roads in Bromley, Greenwich, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, Southwark and Wandsworth later in the year.
This will bring the total mileage of London’s roads set to 20mph to 87 miles.
Gary Digva, founder of Road Angel, said: “The introduction of more 20mph roads will help to reduce road accidents and fatalities in the capital.
“Collisions are more likely to occur when a car is moving fast, so the decision is great news for vulnerable road users, especially since speed is such a contributing factor to deaths in the capital.
“Road safety should be the top priority with the high rate of deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads.
“Spain saw a 20 percent mortality rate decrease after implementing the lower speed policies, so there is substantial evidence that this will work to make our roads safer, and potentially save hundreds of lives a year.
“Lowering the speed limit in areas where there are a lot of vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, makes sense as it reduces the risk of fatalities should there be a collision.
“Not only does lowering the speed limit reduce the force and impact of a vehicle, but it also dictates if a driver is able to stop in time to avoid a crash.
“Although they may seem inconvenient to people in a rush, these policies will ultimately save lives, and should be considered across the whole of Britain.”
