20mph speech to town council meeting
AFTER collecting many thousands of signatures for a 20mph speed limit in Leek, I am asking for support, for a trial 20mph speed limit from the traffic lights at Ball Haye Road junction to the top of Mill Street, Leek’s busiest road from Buxton to Macclesfield which is Stockwell Street.
I represent Leek and District Civic Society whose first rule of its constitution is to stimulate public interest in the area of benefit (the definition of benefit, something that promotes wellbeing).
So we need our first 20mph speed limit in Stockwell Street for the benefit of pedestrians and motorists, cyclists, the elderly and disabled, the death and blind and visitors to our ancient market town.
After removing the roundabout and breaking the 106 agreement the County Highways Department promised two safe pedestrian crossings in Stockwell Street. One opposite the Nicholson Institute, our Public Library, Museum, Art Gallery, Tourist Information Centre and Buxton and Leek College and also a safer road exit from the T-junction at the top of St Edward Street, still neither done over 10 years later.
At 20mph, there would be safer exits into Stockwell Street from our Town Centre Car Parks out of Market Street, the only exit which includes all town centre traffic.
The Foxlowe Community Arts Centre and Moorlands House car parks all exiting from next to the Town Clerk’s Office and not forgetting the Market Place car park exit also. All these exits with no crossing facilities for pedestrians.
With a Government grant, the council is investing millions of pounds to promote shopping facilities, also in our history and pride, the Nicholson Institute all towards Leek’s main industry, TOURISM, that of course is good. However these projects make Stockwell Street even busier.
1. Supporting a trial 20mph speed limit in Stockwell Street at very little cost, would show that Leek and Stafford County Council hierarchy cares.
2. 20mph means less damage to roads, buildings, noise pollution, air pollution and people’s mental health.
3. It is a win win positive outcome for wel being, if you so wish it.
4. Health and safety for all should be the priority of all in authority. Roger Warrillow (Chair of the Leek
and District Civic Society )