20mph decision - more reaction (Norwich Liberal Democrats Online)

Norwich Liberal Democrats Online <info@norwichlibdems.org.uk>

20mph decision - more reaction

June 3, 2010 10:39 AM

Cllr Judith Lubbock, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Transport on Norwich City Council, responded to the decision not to introduce 20mph speed limits in residential streets in a letter to the local press.

People power and 20mph limits

Dear Editor,

A decision at the Joint Highways Committee not to proceed with a blanket 20 mph speed limit in all of Norwich's residential streets is a disappointment. Especially so as a recent survey found that 53% of respondents were in favour of such a measure and that the scheme was scuppered by the two Conservative County Councillors who neither live in nor represent residents from those areas of Norwich which would have been affected.

However, the disappointing decision made me think of the issue in another light. Is this not an opportunity to call on those who do care about reducing speed to reduce accidents and the severity of accidents, those who do care about reducing pollution, those who do care about encouraging more walking and cycling in a safer environment, and those who are concerned at the problems of obesity, to actually drive at 20 mph in Norwich's residential streets?

This way no money needs to be spent on expensive signs, traffic regulation orders and consultation. (An estimated £500,000) Residents themselves can play an important role in reducing reliance on the motor car and carbon and instigate a trend to more walking and cycling for short journeys in their neighbourhood. A small step for residents but an important one for Norwich and the environment.

I will be doing 20 mph in residential areas I hope others will do likewise.

Yours sincerely,

Cllr. Judith Lubbock

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Transport

422 Unthank Road

NR4 7QH

Tel: 504126