New 20mph limits planned for busy roads roads in city

BUSY roads through Bath could be limited to 20mph under proposals by transport bosses to encourage more people to walk, cycle or scooter.

Bath and North East Somerset Council wants to reduce the existing 30mph speed limit along London Road and extend the restriction along the Paragon, Cleveland Place, Bathwick Street, Sydney Place, Darlington Street, Beckford Road, North Road, Bathwick Hill, Widcombe Hill, Copseland, Prior Park Road and Ralph Allen Drive, Bath.

It also wants new 20mph restrictions on the roads from the city centre towards the University of Bath.

The council said in a draft traffic regulation order for the new limits: “Reduced vehicle speeds can be an influential factor in encouraging people to walk and cycle more often and can give them greater confidence to do so.

“Whilst vehicle speeds in London Road can sometimes be relatively low due to general activity and congestion, there are times during the day when vehicle speeds can be detrimental to the use of the road by pedestrians and cyclists.

“Aside from the potential benefits for pedestrians, cyclists and air quality, this course of action [the new speed limit] would also help to reduce street clutter, as the speed limit would then be contiguous with the existing 20mph speed limit on the side roads joining these main roads.”

Much of the city is already covered by 20mph limits but this will be the first time the council has introduced them on busier roads that mainly carry through traffic.

Councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for transport services, said: “Pedestrians are less likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries if hit by a vehicle travelling at 20mph compared to a vehicle which is travelling only 10mph faster.

“The roads where we want to reduce vehicle speeds are ones that are well-used by pedestrians and cyclists.

“We want to reduce the dominance of vehicles in built-up areas to encourage more walking and cycling as well as improve air quality and health across the district. These proposed 20mph limits that extend outside the city centre will support our overall aim.”

Chief constable Andy Marsh has shared Avon and Somerset Police’s stance on introducing speed limits with the council.

He also said said the police will enforce 20mph speed limits if there is deliberate offending, but they will not be routinely enforced if the limits are unclear.

Residents can comment on the proposed TRO until November 5 before a final decision is made by the council.