11. The Restricted Roads (20 mph Speed Limit) (Wales) Order 2022

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:53 pm on 12 July 2022.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 4:53, 12 July 2022

There are some issues around how you use statistics, obviously, Mark, but actually, if you use the mileage of the road compared to that, that doesn't entirely hold.

The evidence shows us that moving to a national 20 mph speed limit for restricted roads would make them safer, save lives and encourage more of us to walk and cycle. Research has shown that public opinion will support the change, and, where a 20 mph speed limit has been implemented, support has grown. There is also evidence that 20 mph limits lead to more walking and cycling, which is a priority for the Welsh Government. Introducing a slower speed limit where people live will help us all to make walking and cycling the most natural way of getting around for shorter distances and weaning ourselves away from relying on private cars. More walking and cycling along with slower traffic speeds will produce more cohesive and safe communities for people to live, work and socialise and is therefore beneficial for people's mental as well as their physical health.

This is not a blanket 20 mph change, and we are working closely with local authorities to identify potential roads where speed limits will be reduced to 20 mph and those that should remain at 30 mph. The presumption to a default residential speed limit of 20 mph is a programme for government commitment.