The Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, has stated that imposing a blanket 20mph speed limit would actually increase the risk to children. Harper explained that widespread use of a 20mph limit undermines its effectiveness in areas where lower speeds are necessary for safety. He argued that drivers are less likely to comply with the speed limit if it is universally applied.
Review of 20mph Limits in England
The Department for Transport (DfT) announced on Friday that it would be reviewing the guidance for 20mph limits in England. The aim is to prevent the blanket use of these limits in areas where they are not appropriate. The DfT's decision follows the Labour-run Welsh Government's recent move to lower the default speed limit from 30mph to 20mph for restricted roads.
Harper's Opposition to Blanket 20mph Limits
In an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Harper expressed his support for 20mph speed limits in specific locations, such as outside schools or heavily built-up areas. However, he opposed the blanket imposition of these limits, referring to the example in Wales. Harper argued that setting a 20mph speed limit without regard to road conditions makes it harder for drivers to comply and reduces the overall effectiveness of these limits.
Study on the Impact of 20mph Limits
A study commissioned by the DfT in November 2018 found that reducing speed limits to 20mph in residential areas did not have a significant impact on driver speeds or the number of accidents. The study also revealed that these limits were generally supported by residents and drivers.
Other Measures to be Introduced
In addition to strengthening guidance on 20mph limits, the DfT will also take action on low traffic neighbourhoods to prioritize local consent. They will introduce a National Parking Platform pilot that allows drivers to use a single app for parking payments. Charges will be imposed on utility firms that dig up roads during peak times, and the revenue will go towards pothole repairs. The DfT will also review bus lane operations and consider allowing motorcycles to use bus lanes.
Shadow Transport Secretary Louise Haigh criticized the 20mph announcement, claiming that it bans something that doesn't exist. However, RAC head of policy Simon Williams praised the government's attention to issues affecting car drivers, while acknowledging the need to balance competing priorities for road users.
Overall, the review of 20mph limits in England and the debate surrounding their effectiveness aim to strike a balance between road safety and the practicality of such limits.
