The Welsh Government's own analysis suggests that reducing the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph could cost the economy billions.
Under Welsh Labour plans to limit residential roads and busy pedestrian streets to 20mph. The principle aim is that the change will reduce the number of people being killed or seriously injured in road crashes n Wales. The change will come into force in September 2023.
Though some have applauded the plans the Welsh Government's own analysis points to a potential £4.5bn hit to the economy. For context, the Welsh Government education budget is just over £3bn a year (though the economic hit from the 20mph limit is spread over 30 years). Published in the explanatory memorandum on the topic, the minister for climate change signed off on the analysis saying it "gives a fair and reasonable view of the expected impact" of the 20mph limit and that she is "satisfied that the benefits justify the likely costs".
