A 20mph speed limit is set to be trialled on residential streets in two areas across Southend-on-Sea in an effort to increase road safety and reduce vehicle emissions.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council proposals for the 20mph pilot areas follow discussions with local ward councillors and vehicle speed surveys carried out in the Thorpe, Leigh and West Leigh wards that identified a high percentage of vehicles speeding in these areas.
As there is underlying historical issue of speeding on roads in these areas, the council said it believes only the introduction of physical measures will have an impact on reducing speeding, such as raised tables, speed humps, speed cushions and kerb line build-outs.
Furthermore, as some of the roads in the identified areas already have 20mph limits and signage in place, a range of extra features have been proposed, including ’20 is plenty’ road markings and banners, raised speed tables at some road entry points and junctions.
Cllr Ron Woodley, cabinet member for transport, asset management and inward investment, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “The introduction of 20mph neighbourhoods can have a tremendous impact on road safety, which is why I am pleased to see this being brought forward.
“Reducing speed will greatly increase safety for local residents and drivers, and can also reduce vehicle emissions, so it’s a win-win for the borough.
“We will carry out air-quality monitoring prior to the implementation, and after, to assess air quality. I look forward to discussing this further with my cabinet colleagues.”
According to the council, studies in London suggest that 20mph speed limits see cars accelerate and decelerate less, producing lower emissions. Residential streets with 20mph limits can also encourage active forms of travel.
The trial areas will cost £500,000 to implement and will be funded using capital grant funding from the UK Department for Transport.
