Communities needed for safer streets scheme work

Strath towns and villages are invited to apply to be a part of a project to reduce speeding.

Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, is starting a new project to work with four communities across Scotland to help them introduce a 20mph speed limit in their local area.

The project will work with local authorities, community organisations, residents and other interest groups to identify the role everyone can play in introducing lower speed limits.

If a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle at 20mph they have a 97 per cent chance of survival. At 30mph this drops to 50 per cent. Living Streets wants to see 20mph set as the default speed limit in built-up areas.

Living Streets is looking for communities that would like to be involved in the project over the next 12 months. Groups or local authorities which are trying to implement 20mph areas are urged to get in touch.

Barbara Allan, Project Coordinator, Living Streets Scotland said:“We know many communities in our cities, towns and villages are concerned about speed limits. We also know that reducing speed limits makes people feel safer and encourages them to walk more, which is better for our health and local environment.

“It’s really encouraging to see 20mph becoming more widespread across Scotland. This project will allow even more communities to benefit from feeling safer on their streets and walking more.”

To find out more about being one of the four communities, contact: Barbara.Allan@ livingstreets.org.uk