Due to the unprecedented numbers of local residents contacting the council, it has been agreed that ALL roads on the Ashley side of the M32 in the East Bristol pilot area are to be included – no exceptions.
Taken with last week’s research publication showing a near halving (42%)’ of road casualties in London’s 20mph zones, it is no exaggeration to expect this to be the biggest single improvement in Bristol road safety ever.
The initial council officers’ plan was a weak scheme modelled on Portsmouth where only side roads were 20mph, whilst the through roads remained at 30mph. A very impressive 310 people, encouraged by Living Streets Bristol, 20s plenty, Bristol Cycling Campaign and Transition Montpelier via this website, successfully lobbied for all roads to be included. This gave Cllr Jon Rogers the backing he needed to win the argument and make it happen.
So what now?
The pilot scheme plans have been given executive approval and the next stage is the ‘Traffic regulation Orders’ – a legal necessity – then implementation next year.
Remember this is a budget scheme with no alterations to road surfaces and just signs at the entrances to the areas: this makes it easier and cheaper to put in – but easier to ignore. The three campaigning groups above think that this is a worthwhile compromise to get a blanket 20mph area.
The initial council officers’ plan was a weak scheme modelled on Portsmouth where only side roads were 20mph, whilst the through roads remained at 30mph. A very impressive 310 people, encouraged by Living Streets Bristol, 20s plenty, Bristol Cycling Campaign and Transition Montpelier via this website, successfully lobbied for all roads to be included. This gave Cllr Jon Rogers the backing he needed to win the argument and make it happen.
So what now?
The pilot scheme plans have been given executive approval and the next stage is the ‘Traffic regulation Orders’ – a legal necessity – then implementation next year.
Remember this is a budget scheme with no alterations to road surfaces and just signs at the entrances to the areas: this makes it easier and cheaper to put in – but easier to ignore. The three campaigning groups above think that this is a worthwhile compromise to get a blanket 20mph area.
read more on the council website here
How will it be enforced?
Avon and Somerset police have agreed to the scheme and our Montpelier beat team are supportive though if you are expecting police traps to catch people speeding at 22mph along Ashley Road we suspect you will be disappointed. The way to make this work is in our hands, as a community:
- If we drive at or below 20, then those behind us have to
- Report regular or dangerous speeding to the beat team
- Community speed watch
- Identify problem areas and collect evidence then demand physical road alterations.
In some instances, we may be able to change the road environment ourselves – like the ‘Thali Corner’ DIY improvements!
Steve
