Villages blighted by speeding motorists call for 20mph zones
A decision's expected in January
Last updated 7th Dec 2023
A Hampshire MP is pushing for more 20mph limits after concerns about motorists "barrelling" through villages.
Meon Valley MP Flick Drummond has asked Hampshire County Council to allow 20mph limits in areas blighted by speeding traffic.
The authority is currently reviewing its 20mph policy with a decision expected in January.
Speaking in a parliamentary debate on the issue this week, Flick said excess speed was a major issue in her constituency.
“I represent a number of villages in Meon Valley that are unsuitable for high-speed traffic. Some are on the A32, which is one of the worst roads in the country for people being killed and injured, but everywhere in our villages the problems of speeding traffic are a menace to the people living, working and going to school,” she told MPs.
“I am pleased that Hampshire County Council is now looking at allowing communities and parish councils to ask for 20 mph zones. I have been calling for that for a long time and residents have been asking for help, particularly along the A32. I hope that the council will allow communities to move forward when it makes a decision in January next year.
“Narrow roads pass right outside people’s front doors, and in many places, there are narrow or even no pavements, including on the A32. Residents feel vulnerable because of the speed of traffic.
“We have to recognise, too, that the average modern car is much bigger and heavier than those in the past. Pedestrians are feeling the squeeze, and so are cyclists, horse riders and even other motorists who might not feel so confident as the drivers barrelling along through a village at above 40 mph in a 30-mph zone.”