Issue - meetings

To receive a report on the 20mph Speed Strategy.

The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member: Housing, Enforcement and Transport presented the report of the Director: Neighbourhood & Enforcement Services. The report sought the approval for the strategy and to develop a community speed watch network.

The report highlighted the 45 existing schemes within the Borough, with six further 20mph speed limit zones set to be introduced. It was noted that the scheme offered flexibility.

Cabinet Members noted that speeding was a significant concern for residents across the Borough and discussed where existing schemes had had an impact on communities. Members welcomed the community speed watch network and noted that these volunteer groups benefitted their communities immensely.

The Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group welcomed the report and thanked the local PSCO in the Wellington area for her work in introducing a community speed watch scheme, which had been very successful.

The Leader of the Conservative Group welcomed the proposals but raised concerns regarding capacity within the highways team. The Leader explained that the Council had put in significant resources into this area and this strategy was a commitment to keep this within the forefront of priorities.

RESOLVED that:

a)    The adoption of the 20mph Speed Limit Strategy as contained in Appendix 1 of the report be approved;

b)   The delivery of 20mph speed limit projects completed to date and those planned for delivery during 2022/23 be noted;

c)    Authority be delegated to the Director: Neighbourhood & Enforcement Services, in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member: Housing, Enforcement & Transport to periodically update the 20mph Speed Limit Strategy as may be required;

d)   Work with partners including Town and Parish Councils, to deliver a Community Speed Watch Programme which will secure over 100 volunteers to assist with monitoring as part of the community speed watch initiative be approved.