York streets to get 20mph speed limits

The plans have been welcomed by headteachers but earlier this year controversy was sparked after calls were made for a rethink amid claims the move did not have popular support.

From this week signs will be going up on smaller, residential roads across the west of the city and it will be rolled out over the coming months.

Earlier this year Liberal Democrat councillors Ann Reid, Lynn Jeffries and Nigel Ayre called for a rethink, saying that out of 13,000 residents consulted by York Council only a few had responded in favour.

The scheme is the first main phase of a policy to introduce 20mph speed limits in residential areas across the city to help promote considerate driving and make walking and cycling more attractive. Full details of the scheme can be found at 
www.york20mph.org

Schools and businesses in the area will receive leaflets and information explaining further details of the scheme.

West of York School’s Partnership, which includes all headteachers in the West of York, said yesterday: “We are encouraged by the positive results that have been achieved in the 
trial areas across the city and as school leaders we are delighted to be able to work in partnership 
to support strategies which ensure the safety and well-being 
of our pupils and our communities.”

Coun Dave Merrett, York Council’s cabinet member for transport, planning and sustainability, said yesterday: “The introduction of lower speed limits, in accordance with the latest Government guidance, 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 collisions.”

The signed-only 20mph speed limits are designed to be self-enforcing.