Chris Davies, the genial host of a B&B in the south Wales village of St Brides Major, was in no doubt. “I’ve lived here all my life and the speed limit was always 30mph. People would shoot through. Since it’s been 20mph it’s been brilliant. The roads are quieter and safer for everyone, including my six grandchildren. It takes an extra 40 seconds to travel from one end of the village to the other. If 40 seconds will save a life it’s well worth it.”
Davies was hosting a different kind of party on Thursday – a visit from the Welsh first minister, Mark Drakeford, to remind the citizens of the country that in 10 days’ time a default 20mph limit will be in force on most roads currently set at 30mph.
