20mph speed limit moves one step closer

11.08.22am GMT Wed 28th Jan 2009

Last Week's Norwich Joint Highways Agency Committee agreed to the introduction of 20mph speed limits in three residential areas in Norwich for a six month trial period. The move means that the Liberal Democrat policy of a 20mph speed limit in all residential areas has moved a step closer.

Under the plans, the Borrowdale Drive area, Marl Pit Lane area and Vauxhall Street/Newmarket Street area will have 20mph speed limits over the next six months. The Council's Head of Transportation and Landscape will then evaluate the projects and report back to the committee in September.

The Liberal Democrats moved the original motion to council in 2006 calling for the city to introduce a 20mph speed limit in all residential areas. The policy has since won cross-party support. Eaton Councillor Judith Lubbock commented "I am pleased that the committee has agreed to these three areas and I welcome them as a first step towards a 20mph speed limit in all residential areas of Norwich. 20mph speed limits would mean safer roads for everyone and will help get more people walking and cycling, which of course will help the environment."

Cllr Lubbock also stressed that it will take time for people to adapt to these changes "These changes will take time to bed-in and I hope that council officers will take that into consideration when assessing the success of this important first step."