Ludlow Town Council backs 20mph campaign
A town council has backed a campaign for a 20mph speed limit on residential streets.
Ludlow Town Council has written to Shropshire Council requesting an investigation into how a 20mph limit can be introduced to the streets.
This proposal would involve extending the existing town centre 20 mph speed limit to all residential roads subject to exceptions specified by the highway authority.
David Currant, speaking for the Ludlow 21 Sustainable Transport group, said: "Area wide 20mph limits have been implemented in cities, towns and villages across the UK and are recognised as the most effective single measure to reduce road traffic accidents and increase healthy living and community togetherness.
"Ludlow Town Council are to be congratulated on taking this step and join four other county towns - Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Bridgnorth and Shifnal - pressing for a change to the existing 30 mph speed limits.
"Lower speed limits provide benefits for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and local businesses, creating calmer, less stressful traffic conditions, cleaner air from reduced engine pollution, increased safety for everyone and especially children, older people and the disabled, all leading to a more neighbourly atmosphere and increased footfall as visitors and residents alike appreciate a calmer, safer and more relaxed street-scene.
“This campaign is far more than a traffic management exercise.
"It challenges the whole concept of community space and how our streets are used.
"The arbitrary speed limit of 30 mph set back in the 1930s has ensured the dominance of motorised traffic to the detriment of pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. 20’s Plenty begins to correct this imbalance so that all road users respect and look out for each other.”
There have been several proposed changes to traffic speeds across the county in recent years.
Changes have come to Shifnal after the town council joined the national 20's plenty campaign.
Dozens of people signed a petition supporting the plans.
The campaign aims to save lives, encourage walking, lower congestion and pollution, create less noise and create a better environment on residential roads.
