Speed Limit Review

In the past limited guidance has been made available to Highway Authorities regarding the setting of speed limits which has resulted in a lack of consistency both locally and nationally. In order to improve this situation the Department for Transport issued Circular 01\06 Setting Local Speed Limits which sets out current best practice.

All Highway Authorities have been requested to review the existing speed limits on A and B class roads, in accordance with the circular and implement the resulting recommendations.

The review has been carried out by the Council’s term consultants, and the results have been forwarded to Parish and Town Councils for consultation. The following links outline the information provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

How has the review been carried out?

The Department for Transport has asked all highway authorities to undertake a review of existing speed limits on A and B class roads in accordance with DfT Circular 01/06 “Setting Local Speed Limits” which sets out the most up to date guidance.

What is the timeframe for implementation of changes?

Following consultation on the results of the review, it is expected that implementation of the recommended changes will start during the summer of 2010. Full implementation of the changes is likely to take about 3 years.

How will priorities be set for implementing the recommendations?

The highest priority will be given to routes with higher than average collision rates. Each speed limit change will require a Traffic Regulation Order and orders will be grouped together geographically where possible to reduce the number of individual orders required and to reduce implementation costs.

Is there an appeal process?

Any comments on the recommendations should be submitted to the relevant Parish or Town Council during the initial consultation period.

New speed limits or changes to an existing limit require a Traffic Regulation Order to be made and there is a further consultation period as part of the Order process but there is no formal appeal process.

Have the police been consulted?

The recommendations of the review have been discussed with the Police and their comments have been incorporated in the published results.

Are any other highway issues taken into account?

The review relates specifically to speed limits on A and B class roads. It does not address other highway issues such as speed enforcement, traffic calming, pedestrian crossings or the use of unsuitable roads by heavy goods vehicles which should be raised through the Area Board.

What about C roads and unclassified roads?

The total route length of these roads is over three times that of A and B class roads. Unclassified highways will be assessed once the changes associated with A and B class roads have been completed. The precise timescale will not be set until late 2010.

How can I comment on the proposals?

Through the relevant Parish and Town Councils.

A full copy of Department for Transport Circular 01/06 Setting Local Speed Limits is available to download from the Department for Transport website.

Last updated: 27 November 2009