Move to cut speed limit to 20mph near schools

Jun 11 2008 by David Williamson, Western Mail

DRIVERS near schools across Wales could be banned from travelling faster than 20mph.

Proposals from the Assembly Government, which have gone out to public consultation, make the case for cutting speeds.

The Government claims that such a move could reduce the number of children killed or seriously injured in road accidents by more than two-thirds.

It also suggests that on poor-quality rural roads the limit should be reduced from 60mph to 50mph.

The consultation document states that during 2006 “some 40% of serious road casualties, and 69% of road deaths in Wales occurred on rural roads” where the speed limit is above 40mph.

Nigel Humphries of the Association of British Drivers urged the Assembly Government to ensure that any new limits were “sensible”.

He said: “For schools, the 20mph limit should apply only when children are arriving and leaving, enforced by flashing lights. Then people will respect it, rather than resent getting a ticket on an empty Sunday.”

Jake Griffiths, of the Wales Green Party, said: “We think it’s far too restrictive just to have 20mph areas around schools because you have still got to get from your house to the school.”

Chris Franks, Plaid Cymru AM for South Wales Central, said there was conclusive proof that 20mph limits changed driving behaviour.

He said: “We know from what has happened in Scotland that 20mph zones have succeeded in reducing the speed of traffic and also reduced casualty numbers, including fatalities. Before 20mph limits were introduced 81% of vehicles in the Fife area were travelling at more than 25mph.

“After the changes 58% of motorists were travelling at less than 20mph which illustrates the success of such an initiative.”

The Labour-Plaid Cymru coalition deal commits the Assembly Government to “support transport sustainability with investment in community transport, cycling, safe routes to school and 20 mph zones”.

Andrew Farina-Childs, the Plaid mayor of Blackwood who has led a six-year campaign, said: “I only hope this legislation, which is much needed and overdue, will be implemented as soon as possible. It will be greatly appreciated, right throughout the country. Parents everywhere will no doubt breath a sigh of relief.”