More 20mph zones closer to being rolled out in Dorset

Five towns have been chosen by the Council to be taken forward

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 25th May 2023
Last updated 25th May 2023

Five town and parish councils in Dorset are a step closer to getting new 20mph speed zones.

Dorset Council's been taking applications from areas who want the lower speed limits to improve safety.

They'll be taking the ideas forward in:

  • Bridport town centre
  • Langton Matravers
  • Wimborne town centre
  • Winfrith Newburgh
  • Pimperne

Dorset Council will now look into funding for the schemes, before a public consultation.

Some areas were unsuccessful in their applications though - the authority says a scheme for Poundbury needs further investigation.

Fifehead Magdalen paused their application to consider an alternative application for a Speed Indicator Device, and Fontmell Magna did not meet the required criteria.

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:

“This initiative is in response to community concerns about road safety and healthy areas in towns and villages. We are committed to working with local towns and parishes to promote road safety. Limiting speeds to 20mph where people walk, live and play is one way people can benefit from streets that are healthier and safer.

“The process does not seek to set a 20mph limit as the default for all roads where people and vehicle traffic mix but it takes a consistent approach to dealing with applications, with a policy that is: implementable by considering national guidance; affordable, placing minimum strain on council budgets; and enforceable by the Police.”

Ian Vaughan Arbuckle, representing Langton Matravers Parish Council said:

“We are delighted to have cleared the first and probably the most difficult hurdle in our quest to get a 20mph limit through the centre of the village: this is something residents have wanted for many years. The new limit will undoubtedly improve the quality of life for residents and make the centre of the village a far safer place.”

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