Village set for new 20mph limit despite objections

A proposal to introduce 20mph zones in a Cambridgeshire village has been recommended for approval despite objections.

Cambridgeshire County Council wants to reduce the current 30mph limit on most residential roads in Swavesey, stating the lower speeds could improve road safety.

But a statutory consultation held by the council showed that 27 respondents objected to the plan, 16 offered support, and two were neutral, the Local Democracy Reporting Service, said.

A report by the authority said that the measures had been designed "to avoid any undue inconvenience to residents" and acknowledged that "opinions vary on 20mph speed limits".

One supporter says the scheme "is drastically needed to slow traffic down", adding that in some cases people have been recorded driving "nearer 60 to 70mph".

However, objectors questioned whether drivers will follow the proposed lower speed limits. One stated that it will "do very little to deter people who will compulsively speed" and will "add to journey times" for people living near the guided busway.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary said it had no objection to the plans, but also raised concerns about compliance with the proposed lower speed limits on some roads.

The report added: "The traffic calming measures have been designed to lower speeds on specific lengths of road where current traffic speeds are relatively high.

"Only two give-way priority narrowings are proposed, so they are unlikely to create any widespread congestion or traffic jams," it said.

A decision on whether to implement the measures is due to be made on 25 February.

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