20mph zones to be implemented in parts of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Winton area identified for a new speed limit scheme
Twenty mile per hour neighbourhoods are to be introduced across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole following a pilot scheme which will see the speed limit of 139 roads reduced.
Winton and surrounding areas, including Charminster, Moordown and Talbot Woods, has been selected as the first location for a new 20mph neighbourhood scheme.
This area was identified as a high priority area as between 2019 and 2023 there were 217 casualties from collisions, with 36 people suffering serious injuries.
The council carried out a public consultation which received 2,626 response and showed that most residents in the area were supportive of the plans.
This was followed by a 28‑day formal TRO consultation, which received 209 responses, 96 responses supported the plans, 105 objections were submitted and eight general comments were made.
The proposal was discussed at a transport advisory group meeting on February 25 where councillors had the chance to ask questions about the timeline of the project and if more neighbourhoods were planned.
Richard Pearson, transport network manager, told the committee: "The intention is to role this out across all neighbourhoods across the whole of BCP. This is the first neighbourhood or couple of neighbourhoods, and we are proposing bringing other areas forward and the next one is likely to be a bigger area.”
Members heard that it is expected to take about three months for the scheme to be implemented, but it could take up to six months depending on weather conditions.
Councillors also asked about if introducing speed indicator devices (SID) to the around the boundary of the new 20mph neighbourhood to encourage residents to slow down.
The committee were told that there was no plans to introduce SID signs as they cost a lot of money to install and there was concerns if numerous SID signs were installed, they would lose their effect.
Councillor Richard Herrett, BCP Council cabinet member for road safety, said: “This is ultimately about saving lives. Introducing a 20mph zone will help create safer, calmer streets, reducing the risk and severity of collisions and making it easier for people to walk, cycle and move around their community.
“The recommendation reflects both the strong local support we’ve heard from residents and the clear safety evidence associated with lower residential speed limits.”
The proposal will be considered by BCP Council’s cabinet on March 4.