New, signed-only 20mph speed limits are to be enforced on unclassified roads in three pilot areas in Norwich.

Members of the Norwich Highways Agency Committee – made up of county and city councillors – made the decision to approve a trial scheme at a meeting last week.

The £40,000 project is to feature almost every type of unclassified residential road, from heavily-parked narrow terraced streets to local authority housing areas where some on-street parking takes place. One road which, under current advice is unsuitable for 20mph speed limit without traffic calming, is also to be included.

A full report will be presented in September 2009 with recommendations on how to implement the proposal city-wide. Safer neighbourhood teams with speed cameras could help enforce new limits with drivers sent a letter advising them of their high speeds.