Suffolk County Council backs new 20mph speed limit policy for communities

A new 20mph speed limit policy to enhance road safety and improve quality of life across Suffolk’s communities has been agreed by county councillors.

Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet has backed the proposal to make it easier to reduce the speed limit, where appropriate, in residential and high-pedestrian areas to 20mph.

Under the new scheme any applications for a 20mph limit in an area where recorded average traffic speeds are 28mph or under is likely to be approved.

The scheme was approved by the Cabinet at its meeting on Friday January 9.

Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Transport Strategy, said: “I am delighted this proposed policy has been accepted, it will make a real difference to the quality of life of our communities.

“This update to the 20mph policy reflects a greater demand for lower speed environments where people live.

“It is not a blanket speed-reduction policy, it is simply a more efficient way of introducing a 20mph limit on roads where it is appropriate to do so.”

Under the new scheme communities, typically parish or town councils, will be invited to come forward with proposals for 20mph limits, supported by their local county councillor and backed by local engagement.

This could include formal surveys or consultation through neighbourhood plans to demonstrate community support.

Assessment criteria will consider observed average traffic speeds, the role and character of the road, and the presence of vulnerable road users.

Schemes will still need local funding, as is currently the case, except where they align with existing council programmes as part of the Local Transport Plan.

Under the scheme, areas with recorded speeds of:

• Below 28mph – likely to be accepted, with a speed limit sign only, although signs warning that a 20mph zone is ahead may be required
• Between 28 - 32mph - unlikely to be acceptable with signing alone. Gateway signing and traffic calming throughout the area may be required
• Above 32mph - Unlikely to be acceptable without extensive traffic calming measures such as road humps, plus night-time lighting. It would also be subject to a Road Safety Audit

The new policy will come into immediate effect for all new applications.