Drivers warned of changes to national speed limit and more 20mph zones
An increasing number of 20mph speed limit roads are being rolled out
PA
Drivers in the Southwest have been warned of an expansion of 20mph zones, as the council proposes new speed limit changes.
North Somerset Council is considering lowering the speed limits on Kenn Street and Duck Lane, currently set at 30mph, to create 20mph zones.
The proposal also includes reducing a section of Kenn Street from the national speed limit of 60mph to 40mph.
These changes are part of a broader initiative to improve safety and create more “enjoyable environments” for local communities, the council detailed. If approved, the Kenn 20mph zone would become the 29th scheme introduced in North Somerset since 2000.
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Council plans to reduce national speed limit to 40mph
PAThe proposed changes aim to create safer and more pleasant spaces for residents and road users, but would see drivers forced to travel at reduced speeds.
Kenn Street and Duck Lane serve multiple functions, acting as through routes for longer-distance traffic connecting to the M5, everyday streets for local access, and residential areas for approximately 100 houses.
The council's plans align with the North Somerset 20mph Action Plan and Active Travel Strategy, adopted in 2021. These initiatives seek to make walking and cycling the preferred methods of transport where possible.
Now North Somerset Council is seeking public input on the proposals. Residents, businesses, and regular users of Kenn Street and Duck Lane are particularly encouraged to share their feedback.
The consultation process will remain open until 5pm on November 15 providing opportunities for community engagement.
20mph zones are areas where the speed limit is reduced to create safer and more pleasant spaces for all users.
By lowering vehicle speeds, these zones aim to improve safety and contribute to a healthier environment for local communities.
The Kenn 20mph zone would join 28 similar schemes introduced in North Somerset since 2000. Recent implementations include areas in Hutton, Wrington, Uphill, Nailsea, Clevedon, Weston-super-Mare, Pill, and Easton-in-Gordano.
These zones support North Somerset Council's commitment to improve sustainable travel networks across the area. They are designed to encourage more people to choose walking and cycling for local journeys, promoting active travel and reducing car dependency.
Councillor Hannah Young said: "The 20mph zones are designed to help residents to feel safer walking and cycling so that more people can choose to travel sustainably.
“That's good for health and wellbeing, helps to reduce local car journeys and supports the council's commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030."
She added that reducing the 60mph limit aims to create a safer environment for all road users outside the 20mph zones.
Councillor Steve Bridger and Wendy Griggs, ward members for Yatton, expressed confidence in community support for the scheme: "We're confident this scheme is supported by the community and are very pleased it has been prioritised."
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20mph zones to be rolled out across the town making it the 29th region
PAThey encouraged residents and local businesses to participate in the consultation to help shape the scheme's details.
Interested parties can access the consultation through North Somerset Council's official channels.
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