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20mph Speed Limit Across the UK
Over the past few years, you will have no doubt noticed the increasing number of 20mph speed limits are becoming common across many cities in England, Scotland, and Wales.
The introduction of these 20mph limits have been put in place in a bid to improve road safety, reduce accidents, and encourage more walking and cycling.
In this article we’re going to have a closer look at where and why these speed limits are being introduced.
Speed Limits England
London
London has taken significant steps to implement 20mph speed limits. Over half of the city's roads, including those within the Congestion Charging Zone, now have these a 20mph speed limit in place.
Transport for London (TfL) has also recently announced that they are set to expand these zones. With the aim to include over 137 miles of roads by the end of 2024.
Key London boroughs such as Camden, Islington, Hackney, and Westminster are leading the charge - with many local roads already under the 20mph limit.
Other Cities
Other major cities in England have also adopted 20mph speed limits:
- Bristol has a comprehensive 20mph scheme across its residential streets. They were introduced to help boost safety for pedestrians, as well as promoting the use of public transport and/or cycling. Evaluations have shown a reduction in road traffic accidents since they were introduced.
- Similarly, Manchester has implemented 20mph limits in many residential areas, aligning with broader safety and health initiatives.
- Liverpool has rolled out 20mph speed limits on many residential roads. The city council has focused on creating safer streets, particularly around schools and busy pedestrian areas.
- Birmingham has introduced 20mph speed limits in various residential areas to reduce accidents and promote cycling and walking.
- Nottingham has also adopted 20mph limits in residential neighbourhoods, aiming to improve road safety and encourage more active travel.
Counties and Towns
Various counties and towns across England have followed suit:
- Sheffield introduced the UK's first 20mph zone in Tinsley in 1991, setting a precedent for others.
- Oxfordshire and York have also implemented 20mph limits on residential streets to boost safety and quality of life.
The government has yet to heed calls from the road safety group Brake to extend the 20mph default limit to England.
Speed Limits Scotland
Scotland is planning to lower speed limits to 20mph on most residential roads by 2025.
There was an earlier Bill along these lines back in 2019 – however it failed. It seems though the Government is perhaps still keen to try and introduce some form of national scheme.
This initiative, part of a comprehensive policy programme, aims to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and support sustainable travel.
Current Implementations
Several Scottish cities and towns have already adopted extensive 20mph zones:
- Edinburgh has implemented these limits in many residential areas to improve safety and encourage walking and cycling.
- Glasgow has recently introduced 20mph limits in various neighbourhoods to enhance safety and promote active travel.
- Aberdeen is expanding its 20mph zones, particularly in residential and high-pedestrian areas, to reduce accidents and make streets safer for walking and cycling.
- Dundee has also adopted 20mph speed limits in several parts of the city, aiming to improve road safety and encourage healthier lifestyles.
Wales 20mph speed limit
In September 2023, Wales became the first UK nation to implement a default 20mph speed limit on most residential roads.
This groundbreaking policy aims to reduce accidents, enhance community safety, and encourage active travel.
It was however with backlash from some members of the public. With selected roads in certain areas of the country perhaps set to revert to 30mph.
Impact and Early Data
Early data shows that average speeds have dropped by about 4mph on monitored roads, leading to a significant reduction in road accidents and casualties.
Data collected from nine communities across Wales reveals a significant drop in average speeds by 4 mph, from 28.9 mph to 24.8 mph, following the implementation of the new speed limit.
Transport for Wales (TfW) highlights a clear link between reduced speeds and lower collision rates. Urban roads with decreased average speeds saw a 6% reduction in collisions for every 1 mph decrease in speed.
Trials and Support
Before the national roll-out, Wales conducted trials in areas such as Abergavenny and North Cardiff.
These trials were successful, showing reduced speeds and accidents. Despite some opposition, many support the initiative for its benefits to road safety and public health.
20mph road limits in the UK
The rise of 20mph speed limits across the UK reflects a strong commitment to road safety, public health, and environmental sustainability.
Despite mixed reactions from motorist, these measures have shown to reduce accidents and improve quality of life. Making roads safer for everyone.
So, whether you’re driving in London, Edinburgh, or Cardiff, make sure you adhere to the speed limits. It is crucial for your safety and the safety of other road users.
Further Reading