Council votes on lower speed limits for residential areas

After several false starts and problems holding meetings in a pandemic, Cheshire East Council is finally voting on 20splenty for Cheshire East on 16th December.

Residents are calling on their councillors to vote in favour of 20mph speed limits as a default on all residential streets;

• To reduce the number and severity of accidents

• To reduce traffic noise and pollution

• To reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and the rate of climate change

• To encourage more active travel – getting more people walking and cycling

• To reclaim the streets as meeting places for young and old, for conversations and for better community life

20mph speed limits are popular; over 1300 Cheshire East residents have signed the petition organised by 20splenty for Cheshire East; annual surveys carried out by the National Travel Attitude Survey regularly show over 70% support for 20mph limits; and residents across the borough have campaigned in support. 

Some councillors are doubtful, but they need to remember:

• It’s not a blanket 20mph limit on all residential streets. It’s a default – 20mph will apply unless there are good reasons why not. 

• It’s not expensive – especially when weighed against the massive benefits 

• The Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner supports it – enforcement is not an issue (at least no more than enforcing 30). By 2022 all new cars will be equipped with speed limiters which automatically apply the prevailing speed limit 

• 20mph limits will help tackle the many problems we are facing; taking pressure off the NHS by reducing accidents; tackling the obesity crisis by enabling active travel; reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and carbon emissions; and boosting local businesses. 

David Mayers of 20splenty for Cheshire East said: "So our message to councillors is – don’t miss this opportunity to stand up for the vulnerable road-users, cyclists and pedestrians, young and old; and be part of the change to a more friendly and caring Cheshire East. Make it 20splenty in 2020!"

Pictured - Grace (12), Ollie (10) and Hannah (9) Cowie; they live on the Lark Hall Road/Ecton Avenue estate in Macclesfield and their parents have given permission for the photo to be used.