20mph limits under discussion - Updated

Adam Hewitt • Published 8 Sep 2010 09:30 0 Comments

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READING could soon see more 20mph limits - including the entire length of Oxford Road - under new proposals being floated this week.

Transport officers have discussed the idea of a reduction in the speed limit between Norcot Road and St Mary’s Butts with the Oxford Road Steering Group and are drawing up initial proposals, but have decided against wider 20mph 'zones’ covering swathes of the borough, because of the “current financial climate”.

The council report says limits should only be introduced where average speeds are already under 24mph and would be subject to “extensive consultation”.

Portsmouth has has 20mph limits in force across almost all of its roads since March 2008 and has had much success cutting speed - but admits there has been no effect on accident rates.

Oxford has also implemented many 20mph limits, and Norwich and Warrington are trialling similar schemes.

- UPDATE

The council’s traffic management advisory panel voted on Thursday to recommend the idea to Cabinet.

Panel chairman and borough transport leader, Cllr Richard Willis, said: “We’re not looking at a blanket 20mph zone, but at what can be done in specific areas - some councillors have indicated they would like to see it in predominately residential areas and there is a proposal for all of Oxford Road.”

Labour transport spokesman, Cllr Tony Page, backed the idea and said: “I think a blanket 20mph zone would be difficult to enforce. We do need to take local communities with us on this.” He said the idea would never please everyone, adding: “There are some Jeremy Clarksons in this world who regard any speed limit as an infringement of their civil liberty to mow down pedestrians.”

Cllr Ricky Duveen added: “Residents don’t let their children play in the streets any more and one of the perceived dangers is the motor car.”

Green Party councillor Rob White, who was at the meeting but does not sit on the panel, said the council should be more bold and introduce a blanket 20mph zone except for major roads, with an opt-out for areas where people did not want it.

One person died and 51 people were seriously injured last year on Reading’s roads according to Government figures, up from 46 deaths and serious injuries in 2008.

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 08 Sep 10

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