PM: 20mph zones shouldn't be 'imposed' without local support
40 roads in Coventry are set to see their speed limits reduced under the City Council's 'Liveable Neighbourhoods' scheme
Last updated 16th Apr 2024
Rishi Sunak's said 20mph zones should not be 'imposed' without local support.
Speaking on a visit to Coventry on Monday, the Prime Minister said they "should not be imposed in a top-down, blanket fashion against the will of local communities."
"That is the government’s very clear approach that we’ve made explicit to local authorities.”
Mr Sunak's comments come a day after new guidance was published, stating that local authorities need to consult residents before introducing low traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs).
He warned councils could lose funding if they introduced LTNs without seeking public support.
The Prime Minister was questioned ahead of plans for a 'liveable neighbourhood' in the Earlsdon area of Coventry.
It includes plans for a 20mph speed limit on 40 roads.
A spokesperson for Coventry City Council confirmed they'd received 55 objections from 31 people - meaning they'd have to be considered by Councillors.
A report is set to be prepared for a City Council cabinet member next month.
Cabinet Member for City Services, Cllr Patricia Hetherton, said the reduced speed limits will be good for the suburb of the city.
"We believe that Earlsdon is an area that will benefit from creating an environment where traffic moves more slowly, creating a safer streets designed around people rather than traffic.
"For example, Earlsdon Primary School is in the heart of the area and at peak times we do have lots of school children and other vulnerable road users using the crossings and the surrounding roads.
"Therefore, it lends itself very well to a 20mph speed limit zone and reducing the impact of traffic will help to increase walking and cycling levels in the area."