A new investigation will look at how effective 20mph zones have been in improving the safety of London’s roads for pedestrians and cyclists.
The London Assembly transport committee will investigate whether 20mph zones are making a difference and, if so, whether more zones should be introduced to reduce the number of fatalities on the capital’s streets. It will also consider the viability of introducing a London-wide default 20mph speed limit on all residential streets. Statistics show that 222 people died on London’s roads last year, of which 109 were pedestrians and 15 were cyclists.
The investigation will include a witness session and a site visit to Portsmouth, where the city council is introducing 20mph limits on all residential streets. According to the assembly, ‘information on the impact of 20mph limits in Portsmouth may be particularly useful’ in determining the merits of blanket coverage.
Research conducted by TRL in 2003 found the average speed of vehicles decreased by 9mph in 20mph zones in London after the limits had been introduced. The average speed of a vehicle driving in a 20mph zone was found to be 17mph. Jenny Jones AM, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘First, we need to find out exactly how well the 20mph zones which are already in place in almost every London borough are actually working – then look at how best to take things forward.’ The findings are expected to be published early next year.
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