Drivers warned of 20mph speed limit roads costing council thousands - ‘Waste of money!’

The lower speed limits came after the council received interest from its local parish and town council in creating safer streets.

But before the council can confirm its decision, it has launched a consultation which will run until Friday, October 18.

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The consultation will allow residents to share feedback on the proposals which will only be introduced if wider support from residents is shown.

If successful, the lower speed limits will cost £300,000 to set up with money drawn from the Council’s Priority Investment Fund.

Councillor Peter Thornton said: “I am pleased to launch the Council’s 20mph consultation. This has been driven by community calls for lower speed limits in appropriate areas.

“The schemes proposed for delivery this year represent a significant step towards achieving our ambition of making our roads safer for everyone.”

He added that by reducing the speed limits, safety will be improved in the area and encourage people to walk and cycle more.

“I urge all residents to participate in the consultation and share their views. This is your opportunity to shape the future of road safety in your community, and your feedback is invaluable in ensuring that these initiatives truly reflect local needs and priorities,” he stated.

Parish Councillor Chris Whittaker has been calling for more 20mph limits on roads and proposed the latest scheme.

He commented: “Throughout my career, I have seen the devastating impact speeding has through supporting many families who have tragically lost relatives.”

“Askham is a busy village which welcomes lots of visitors to popular local destinations including Askham Hall and Lowther Castle.

"We are also situated on popular cycling and walking trails and because of this, we want to make our village safer through reducing the current speed limit from 30mph to 20mph,” he detailed.

He noted that lower speed limits will only be introduced if community support is determined through the consultation.

However, drivers have already shared their disapproval of the scheme. Taking to social media, one person said: “I think it's a great idea next to schools, but everywhere else why?”

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Someone else shared: “Would the money implementing this scheme not be better spent fixing potholes etc!!!

"Regarding safety for bikes and pedestrians, the money would be better spent educating some bike riders, cause a lot of people riding bikes at night with no lights, reflectors, wearing black, going up the wrong side of the road and so on. Who is going to police the 20mph zones? Waste of money!!!”

Before the closing date, the council will offer 11 drop-in events around the Westmorland and Furness area.