Work has begun to install a new 20mph speed limit in parts of Cardiff has begun, Cardiff Council has said. Council contractors are currently installing the lines and signs for a new 20mph phase one scheme in Llandaff North, Whitchurch & Tongwynlais, Rhiwbina and Heath.
All residential streets in these wards will be limited to 20mph once the scheme is fully implemented, apart from Manor Way and Western Avenue, which will remain at 30mph. Redundant 30mph signs are currently being taken down in these areas, with Cardiff Council saying that the aim is to complete implementation of the scheme by May 14.
This is the first phase of the Welsh Government’s legislative programme to reduce the national default speed limit on residential roads from 30mph to 20mph in 2023. All roads within the highlighted area in the above image will become 20mph, apart from Manor Way and Western Avenue. The wards included in this trial have been chosen because they have a variety of different types of roads, including residential streets, connector roads within communities, regional arterial routes and those with residential characteristics.
The scheme was announced in October last year, with Cardiff Council launching a public consultation during that month. The Welsh Government announced its pilot in February last year. If the pilot is successful, the changes could be rolled out across Wales in 2023, making 20mph the default speed limit in residential areas.
A spokesperson for Cardiff council said: “As a council, we have been installing 20mph areas across the city, south of the A48, for a number of years now. Slowing vehicle speeds in residential areas is a positive step forward for our local communities and is supported by the majority of residents. Research clearly shows that reducing vehicle speeds in residential areas does reduce the number and severity of road collisions, provides better opportunities for residents to walk and cycle, makes our streets healthier and improves the environment for everyone.”
Other areas in the pilot include St Brides Major, Abergavenny, Severnside, Buckley, Cilfriw Village, St Dogmaels, and Llanelli North. During the pilot, the Welsh Government will monitor data on compliance, casualties, walking and cycling, as well as economic, environmental and health impacts.
