Roll out of 20mph zones to put brakes on motorists

It is proposed that Acomb, Holgate, Dringhouses and Woodthorpe and Westfield will have lower speed limits introduced as part of a phased citywide roll out as part of a scheme designed to promote considerate driving and encourage more people to cycle and walk.

The introduction of the proposed 20mph limits, which are planned to be in place in spring/summer 2013, will ensure that the majority of residential roads and neighbourhoods will have a lower speed limit to help reduce average speeds.

Local trials run in Fishergate between December 2009 and February 2011 demonstrated the average speed of traffic was effectively reduced - by 3 miles per hour - and that residents reported that they felt it was now a safer and healthier environment for walking and cycling.

Coun Dave Merrett, York Council’s cabinet member for transport, planning and sustainability, said: “The introduction of lower speed limits reduces speeds, giving drivers more time to react to the presence of other road users, and reducing the likelihood and scale of any potential remaining accidents. We are seeking to increase driver and safety awareness on our roads as part of the roll out.”

The rollout of 20mph speed limits will be implemented clockwise around the city starting with the West then moving to the North before finishing in the South-East over the next two years and will be funded via the council’s transport capital budget.

Residents living in and around the proposed 20mph areas will receive information, legal notices and details on timescales through their letterboxes from April and May.

Signed-only 20mph limits have only recently been allowed by the Government and rely on motorists to adhere to the limit.

Insp Michael Barron of North Yorkshire Police’s Roads Policing Group, said: “By reducing the speed limits through residential areas, noise pollution will be reduced and the environment will feel safer for all road users and pedestrians alike, and in the unfortunate event of a collision, the severity of injuries can be reduced.”