Cardiff Council Receives Nearly 1,000 Requests to Change Roads Back to 30mph
In response to the new 20mph speed limit law that came into effect on September 17, 2023, Cardiff council has been inundated with requests from residents to revert city roads back to 30mph. The Welsh Government ordered councils to compile lists of roads that people wanted to change and assess them accordingly. In Cardiff alone, 933 requests have been submitted, pertaining to 235 streets or locations. Some requests contained unclear or incorrect street names, according to a council spokesman.
Following public outcry, the Welsh Government announced a review of the guidance given to councils for enforcing the 20mph limit. The new criteria state that changes will primarily be considered for A and B roads switching from 20mph back to 30mph. Exceptions will be made for roads where pedestrians and cyclists frequently interact with vehicles, with safety being a priority. Since September, councils across Wales have received numerous requests for speed limit changes.
Rhondda Cynon Taf council reported 300 requests to revert back to 30mph, while Conwy council stated they had received requests for 149 roads to be reviewed. Flintshire council disclosed 956 requests for reinstating 30mph limits, although the specific number of affected roads was not provided. Monmouthshire council is currently conducting a listening exercise to determine the impact on their roads. Pembrokeshire council noted significant correspondence on the issue, with Ynys Mon council receiving 40 requests for speed reconsideration.
In Blaenau Gwent, there were 50 requests related to speed limit changes, with varying preferences for returning to previous limits. Gwynedd council received 83 responses regarding speed limit adjustments. These requests highlight the widespread community concern regarding the 20mph speed limit and the desire for roads to be restored to 30mph. The Welsh Government and local councils continue to assess these requests to address public safety and transportation needs effectively.