Speed cut trial starts
Several streets are part of PKC’s speed limit test
Perth and Kinross Council has begun formally testing lower speed regulations in five locations around the council area, including in Comrie.
Dalginross, Strowan Road, Tay Avenue and adjoining streets have become ‘twenty’s plenty’ zones.
Over the years, the local authority has received many requests from councillors, community councils and local residents for the introduction of 20mph speed limits, and sites for reduced speed limits were previously identified through an existing strategy introduced in 2016.
Approval was given by the Environment and Infrastructure Committee in 2019 for a 20mph Speed Limit Trial in Aberfeldy, Dalginross, Errol, Kinnesswood and Rattray.
Environment and Infrastructure Convener, Councillor Angus Forbes said: “Each of the trial sites has a particular characteristic that may impact on how effective a 20mph speed limit can be - they include a village, school site, town, residential core and a village with an A class road.
“Comparing these characteristics will allow us to determine the suitability of future 20mph limits in an effective and clear way.”
The trial period will run for nine months, and will involve the use of different measures to assess what affects motorists’ compliance with the 20mph speed limit, along with traffic counts, which will continue until July.
Traffic counts have already been undertaken in the Shaky Village to assess pre-trial vehicle speeds.
June will see a period of Police Scotland enforcement under the new limits, and in July speed cushions will be installed on selected routes within trial areas.
During August and September, the data gathered will be analysed and there will also be engagement with the community to gauge perceptions of the trial.
In January 2021, a report will be submitted to the Environment and Infrastructure Committee on the findings and recommendations.
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said: “During each phase of the trial, traffic counts will be undertaken for a two-week period which will provide data on traffic volumes and vehicle speeds.
“The data gathered will enable an assessment of how each measure has affected travel patterns.
“The report to committee will cover the trial period, its overall impact and recommendations for how the existing 20mph Speed Limit Strategy will be revised or developed in the future.”