STOP BLANKET 20MPH

We realise there are many stats around that can prove almost any argument but 2 key stats we researched was whether lower traffic speeds reduce emissions and whether they reduce fatalities on the road.

Rospa support the reduction but also say that 20mph limits are not as effective as 20mph zones (which have traffic calming). Most interesting comparison is Portsmouth which also has reduced limit on many of its roads. On average speed has fallen across the city by 1.3mph – hardly a 30-20mph reduction. More interesting is the killed/seriously injured figure is up.

http://www.rospa.com
/roadsafety/advice/h
ighway/info/20-mph-z
one-factsheet.pdf

The AA quote a 10% increase in fuel emissions in a 20mph zone compared to 30mph, more pollution:

http://www.theaa.com
/public_affairs/news
/20mph-roads-emissio
ns.html

We feel that these plans go too far. Small residential limits of 20mph in select narrow terraced roads such as Elm Grove, Hove Avenues, Town centre we agree on, however there are too many of the major roads included in this initiative. It has not been thought out and being rushed through as a blanket ruling. Additionally this will increase pollution for local residents which could negate (or even reverse) the benefits in lowering accidents with increased breathing difficulties and lower standard of life.

Lastly with so many of the City worried and concerned about the ‘big brother’ style governing of their lives – there is a very strong likelihood of increase conflict, anger amongst the residents of the city.