Council to reduce speed limits over safety fears

A council will be introducing new speed limits in four parts of its district after residents raised concerns about speeding and safety.

West Berkshire Council said the changes would affect Donnington, Shaw, Greenham and Sulhamstead following statutory consultations earlier this year.

The decision follows feedback from more than 500 responses across four consultations, with support for reduced speed limits outweighing objections.

Cabinet member for highways Stuart Gourley said: "Residents have been very clear about where they feel improvements are needed, and we have listened."

The new limits will be implemented as part of the council's network management works programme and will be funded through the existing capital budget for speed limit changes.

The speed limit will be reduced from 40mph to 30mph on Oxford Road in Donnington, the A339 Newtown Road in Greenham will be reduced from 50mph to 40mph, and to 30mph on the roundabout.

Lower speed limits will also be introduced on Sulhamstead Hill, in Sulhamstead, from the national speed limit to 30mph, and on B4009 Long Lane, in Shaw, the 30mph will be extended by 80m.

Mr Gourley said: "These changes reflect our commitment to creating thriving communities with support from strong local voices.

"We've acted on the concerns raised and identified practical steps to make these roads safer for everyone.

"These speed limit reductions will help protect pedestrians, support safer school routes and improve confidence for those walking and cycling."

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