A recent attempt to revoke the 20mph speed limit law in Wales was rejected in the Senedd, marking just over a year since its implementation. The Welsh Conservatives proposed a motion to overturn the law that set the default speed limit at 20mph in built-up areas. However, Plaid Cymru and Labour members voted against the proposal, highlighting the law’s positive impact on road safety in the country. The motion was overturned by a vote of 37 to 14. Wales was the first country in the UK to introduce the reduced speed limit in built-up areas on September 17, 2023. The law has been a subject of controversy, with nearly 470,000 people signing a petition against it – the largest in Senedd history.
The Welsh Government has defended the lower speed limit, stating it will save lives and reduce NHS costs by £92 million annually. The government estimates that the law change could prevent up to 100 fatalities and 20,000 injuries within the first decade. Despite acknowledging some implementation issues, former transport minister Lee Waters argued for the effectiveness of the policy. He highlighted that average speeds had decreased, resulting in fewer collisions, with casualties down by 32%. Waters criticised the changing negative messaging around the policy, emphasising the need to maintain public compliance for road safety.
In response to the unsuccessful motion, Transport Secretary Ken Skates stated that areas where the lower speed limit was unsuitable would be reviewed. Conservative shadow minister for transport, Natasha Asghar MS, voiced concerns over the economic impact of the 20mph policy, estimating potential costs to the Welsh economy. Asghar faced censure for inaccurately describing the speed limit as “blanket” in social media posts. She defended her stance, asserting her duty to represent the views of constituents and residents.
While disagreements persist between political parties regarding the 20mph speed limit, the Senedd remains divided on the issue. The debate reflects ongoing tensions surrounding road safety policies and their broader implications. Both supporters and critics of the law continue to advocate for their positions, underscoring the importance of finding a balance between public concerns and policy objectives. The outcome of this recent Senedd decision signals a continued commitment to prioritising road safety initiatives in Wales.