The Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, has expressed concerns that enforcing a blanket 20mph speed limit would increase risks for children. According to Harper, widespread use of these speed limits makes drivers less likely to comply, leading to a decrease in their effectiveness in areas where a lower speed limit is necessary for safety. The Department for Transport has announced that they will review the guidance on 20mph limits to prevent their blanket use where it is not appropriate.

Welsh Government Drops Default Speed Limit to Protect Lives

The move to review 20mph speed limits comes after the Welsh Government implemented a default 20mph limit for restricted roads. They believe this change could save up to 100 lives and 20,000 casualties in the first ten years. However, Transport Secretary Mark Harper argues that the blanket imposition of a 20mph speed limit, as seen in Wales, is inappropriate and counterproductive.

20mph Limits Should Be Applied in Specific Areas

Harper clarified that 20mph speed limits make sense in certain areas, such as outside schools or in heavily built-up areas where children may be playing. However, he stresses the importance of avoiding the blanket imposition of these limits. According to Harper, some 20mph limits in Wales have been imposed without considering the specific conditions of the road, which may lead to non-compliance and reduced safety benefits.

Study Finds Minimal Impact of 20mph Limits on Driver Speeds

A study commissioned by the Department for Transport in 2018 indicated that reducing speed limits to 20mph does not significantly impact driver speeds. The study also found that the majority of residents and drivers in residential areas supported the introduction of 20mph limits. However, the report concluded that there was no evidence of a significant decrease in crashes and casualties after the implementation of these limits.

Prime Minister Announces Pro-Driving Policies

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently announced a series of pro-driving policies, including stronger guidance on 20mph limits. These policies aim to improve the driving experience and address concerns that drivers often feel under attack. The package also includes measures related to low traffic neighbourhoods, a National Parking Platform pilot, charges for utility firms that dig up roads during peak times, and consultations on bus lanes and motorcycle usage.

Political Responses and Road User Considerations

Labour's Shadow Transport Secretary Louise Haigh criticized the announcement of the 20mph review, describing it as a ban on something that doesn't exist. The RAC's head of policy, Simon Williams, welcomed the government's focus on drivers' needs but highlighted the importance of considering all road users and their competing priorities, such as safety, time-efficient travel, traffic congestion, and air quality.

A default 20mph speed limit has been introduced on restricted roads across Wales.