The council has agreed to impose the restrictions in a pilot scheme at Athersley South and Royston Doles using signs rather than road humps.

But South Yorkshire Police said it could only support the move if it was supported by traffic calming measures.

Councillors overruled the objection and said the point of the pilot was to see how effective the signs alone could be.

Improving safety

Bus operator Yorkshire Traction also objected to the pilot plans because of the impact it would have on its bus routes.

Councillor Margaret Morgan said the signs were more acceptable to residents.

"Whilst traffic calming involving road humps is effective in reducing vehicle speeds and road casualties they are not always fully supported by all residents due to noise and access issues," she said.

"These trials need the support of the local community to be effective, and I am sure we will get that."

Highways officers will monitor the effectiveness of the 20mph limit at improving road safety before the restrictions are introduced in other areas.