Drivers face a huge increase in 20mph speed limits across the country as the government aims to slash road deaths by 40% come 2020.
A blizzard of new 20mph speed limits are set to be introduced on major arterial roads where previously they were only deployed on road near schools or in residential areas. The move is being spearheaded by London with eight 18-month trials to be implemented on the capital’s ‘Red Routes’, 30 miles of main roads that carry up to a third of the city’s traffic. Those caught breaking the 20mph speed limit will be subject to three points on their licence plus a minimum of a £100 fine.
London is not alone in adopting the policy – Manchester and Edinburgh are in the consulting phase, while some towns and cities have already implemented the rollout; for example, Bristol has concluded its own trial and is in the process of installing 20mph signs at a cost of £2.3 million.
Research shows 20mph zones can save lives and this government has made it easier for councils to introduce them. It is for local authorities to set speed limits and for the police to decide how best to enforce them.”
– Department for Transport spokesperson.
Some motoring groups though have expressed concern with an AA spokesperson telling the Daily Mail that while it doesn’t object to 20mph limits where appropriate and supported by the local community, “the blanket rollout of so many 20mph limits and zones is going to push lots of money into Treasury coffers and give them a cash windfall. Worried drivers may feel well and truly fleeced if they are caught on camera and fined for being marginally over the speed limit.”