Plan for 20mph limit to cover 139 of town's roads

A new 20mph speed limit is planned for 139 roads across Bournemouth.

The proposals, covering Winton, Charminster, Moordown and Talbot Woods, will be considered by a transport advisory group on Wednesday before going before Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council's cabinet on 4 March.

The scheme aims to cut serious collisions, improve safety and support better air quality after the area recorded more than 200 crash injuries between 2019 and 2023, including 36 serious cases.

However, the zones have proved controversial across the UK, and are often criticised for not being enforced, with the speed limit often ignored by drivers.

Wales introduced a blanket national 20mph speed limit in 2023, with data showing that in the scheme's first year the number of people hurt fell by 28% compared with the same period the year before, with 10 fewer deaths.

Green councillor Simon Bull, who represents Winton East, said it would take motorists "some getting used to" if implemented but believed it would be a positive move.

"Most of the residents I have spoken to are in favour of the 20mph neighbourhood," he said.

"It will make the roads safer for everyone and many of the roads aren't suitable for higher speeds with parked cars on both sides."

A total of 209 responses were received during the formal Traffic Regulation Order consultation - 96 supported the change, 105 objections were submitted and eight general comments were made.

When the plans first went out to consultation, BCP and Dorset Motorists Group opposed the plans and launched a petition citing a lack of confidence in the council's traffic and transport strategy that attracted over 3,000 signatures.

Steve Moody, the group's chair, said: "I think 20mph zones have their place, particularly outside schools and we as a motorists' group would support that.

"However, we'd like to see that on a part-time basis, not 24 hours, seven days a week."