Out with the old, in with the new. The Secretary of Transport, Louise Haigh, says it’s a go for driving lanes of 20 mph. Here’s what it’s about.
20 Mph Zones
The Secretary of the Department of Transportation, Louis Haigh, has given the green light for 20mph zones. She reassured the public and local governments that she supported this decision. She also said that she would support cycling lanes exclusive to cyclists and Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTN).
Former Government Said “No”
The Conservative Government banned the use of 20mph zones, saying the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said it was a “hare-brained” scheme to implement blanket 20mph zones and LTNs. But in Wales, the 20mph zones under Labour reduced collision rates and CO2 emissions. However, the transport secretary noted the rule was a play on “cultural wars.”
Old Government Made It Difficult for Local Authorities
She said the old government prioritised “active transport” during the pandemic only to take it and the funding away afterwards.
Limitations Got the Better of People
Haigh added that one of the Conservative government’s biggest problems was limiting departments and county authorities from making decisions. Haigh announced her full support to local authorities who want to introduce LTN roads with a 20 mph speed limit.
Who Better Than the Local Communities to Know?
Haigh expressed her concerns about the government making decisions without considering the people living in the area. She reiterated that it was “entirely up for local areas to decide.” In her view, allowing people to choose what’s best for their region regarding speed and LTN makes more sense.
Fewer Limitations on Haigh’ Watch
The transport secretary confirmed the go-ahead for these road changes and that it was important to have the government’s backing, or “air cover,” as she named it. Haigh said the former government “said no” to many things, including LTNs and 20mph roads.
Not Everyone Agrees About Road Speeds
Confliction with road speeds in Wales. According to Bloomberg, in 2023, the Welsh scrapped the 20mph blanket speeds that were said to reduce road casualties and motor insurance claims. Instead, the local government replaced them with 30mph in certain sections.
Overwhelming Public Opposition
A recent YouGov poll in Wales revealed most people oppose the 20mph speed limits. According to the poll, 72% of Welsh residents disapprove of the policy, while only 24% support it.
Tories Said No
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he was “slamming the breaks on the war on motorists…” referring to the lower blanket speeds. During his leadership, he removed 20mph speed zones and LTN in many regions. In contrast, the Labour Transport Secretary supports LTN and 20mph implementation where local areas decide they are needed.
Slow Speeds Slow the Economy
According to South Wales Argus, economists noted that the speed limitations cost Wales an accumulative £9 billion, as they ” slow Wales down.” Those who were against it also thought it a waste of time. However, the report said the Welsh government has lowered road collisions due to the 20mph speed limit.
Welsh Locals Opposed the Speed Limit
It soon became clear that not everyone was happy, as the slow speeds seemed to result in heavy traffic congestion. Apart from traffic congestion, no support for limiting LTNs has been provided.
The Public Took to the Streets of Wales
Given the news, the Welsh residents vandalised road signs and street markings in an attempt to protest the speed limitations. As a result, this costs the then government more money to repair and resolve.
Petition Partially Granted
After rigorous petitioning of the locals and nearly 5 million signatures, the local Welsh authorities are forced to “budge” on the speed rules.
Cost Fears
Limits are still present. While the local Welsh government said it would “relax” some of the speed limitations, it wouldn’t do so for all the roads. The fear is that it could cost an estimated £5 million, according to South Wales Argus local news.
A Tip From the Tory Government
Haigh supports Boris Johnson’s initiative to push the goal that by 2030, most of the UK will become more active and use active modes of transport and mobility. A Living Streets spokesperson viewed Haigh’s statement as encouraging to all.
Added Bonus
According to reports, the transport secretary is also on the health board. She noted that public health spending is over £7.4 billion a year due to inactive lifestyles and is focused on changing these statistics.
Labour Supports Healthier Lifestyles
Haigh mentioned that Labour’s support of active travel, such as cycling and walking, would be “unprecedented.” She also said that the initiative could “cut GP appointments by the millions.”
Risks of Sedentary Lifestyles
Sedentary lifestyles are the leading cause of chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic pain, and cardiovascular disease. The Johns Hopkins Institute Cardiologist Erin Michos said, “…inactivity is taking a toll on health…”
It’s for the Best
While some people are upset about driving speeds and faster-moving traffic in built-up areas, most welcome it. Not only would it improve traffic flow, it could improve the economy as things move along a bit quicker.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Altaf Shah.