20mph limit is working
Your report on 20mph in Oswestry reveals a serious misunderstanding on the part of Oswestry town councillors on the Bath and NE Somerset 20mph report.
The report has been widely misquoted and this is what it actually said: Crashes in the 20mph limits had reduced by 28 per cent in Bath; casualties in the 20mph limits had reduced by 23 per cent in Bath.
The number roads with average speeds at or above 24mph had reduced by 43 per cent when 20mph was implemented.
The number of roads with average speeds at or above 26mph had reduced by 78 per cent when 20mph was implemented.
This means that the 20mph scheme was a success. We also need to keep in mind the very clear scientific evidence produced by the World Health Organisation showing that a five per cent drop in speed produces a 30 per cent reduction in fatal crashes. If we really want to reduce death and injury on the roads in Shropshire we should embrace 20mph with enthusiasm.
Professor John Whitelegg, Co-organiser, Shropshire-wide 20mph campaign, Church Stretton
