Council rules out 20mph limit outside Penistone school despite 2,000 signature petition
A total of 1,985 people signed the petition - which called on Barnsley Council to safeguard students by cutting the limit
Last updated 19th Feb 2026
Nearly 2,000 people have signed a petition calling for improved road safety outside a Barnsley school, but the council has ruled out lowering the speed limit.
The petition considered by Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s cabinet on Tuesday February 18 calls for a permanent 20mph speed limit on Huddersfield Road near Penistone Grammar School.
A total of 1,985 people signed the petition, which was received by the council on 12 December last year.
Campaigners argued that reducing speeds would improve safety for pupils, parents and staff travelling to and from the school.
However, council officers said the request had been assessed by the authority’s traffic group, which found no collision cluster sites at the location.
In a report to cabinet, officers said this meant a permanent 20mph speed limit could not be supported at this time.
Instead, the council said it would install new “20mph when lights flash” warning signs on Huddersfield Road, designed to remind drivers to slow down during school opening and closing times.
The council said no further action was recommended under its Petitions Scheme.
The cabinet noted the response, meaning the council’s decision on the petition is now final unless further evidence is brought forward.