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Decision due on 20mph scheme for Whittlesford after ‘mixed views’




A decision on a proposed 20mph zone in Whittlesford is due to be made this week.

The county council held a statutory consultation on plans for most residential roads within the built-up part of Whittlesford to be given the lower speed limit, except for stretches on the edge of the village.

A 20mph sign
A 20mph sign

There were 25 objections and 29 comments of support of the plans, which are part of a wider programme to introduce more 20mph limits across Cambridgeshire.

One respondent said: “Every morning I see commuters whizz around the blind bend past my house while children are walking to school, and I am astonished there has not been a tragic accident yet.

“Crossing North Road from the Guildhall to the shop feels like I’m taking my life into my hands every time.

“I have witnessed two accidents at the junction of North Road and the High Street, which would not have happened if people had been going 20mph around a corner with poor or non-existent visibility.”

Another believed the 20mph limit would “make a huge difference to the safety of children” in the village.

And one said “careless drivers are extremely fast” and claimed this “violates pedestrians’ and cyclists’ safety”.

But some argued it was unnecessary or “unenforceable”.

“The proposed 20mph speed limit is unlikely to make any difference to the type of driver that doesn’t even stick to the existing speed limits,” said one respondent.

“The money would be better spent repairing and resurfacing roads and pavements that are now in such a poor state that they pose a greater risk to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians than speeding cars.”

Another person who has lived in Whittlesford for over 50 years, said the roads had “never been dangerous”.

“Being self employed, it’s hard enough to drive from A to B due to the amount of traffic let alone crawling along and being overtaken by pedestrians and bikes.” The respondent called it “another stupid idea and one that will not be welcomed by the majority”.

The county council recognised there were “mixed views” but noted: “The recent statutory process and the earlier parish council local engagement exercise suggest a reasonable level of local support.

“20mph limits are widely used to encourage drivers to travel at lower speeds, particularly in residential areas where it is common for more vulnerable road users to be present.

“In addition, there are likely to be a higher number of pedestrians and cyclists, who will feel safer and more confident if motorised vehicles are travelling at reduced speeds.

“20mph speed limits represent a relatively cost-effective way to improve road safety and encourage more sustainable modes of transport.”

A final decision is due to be made on Thursday (12 December).



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