20mph Scheme Expansion

THE advantages of a 20mph speed limit across the Southend City is set to be discussed at an upcoming council meeting, following a successful trial in Leigh.

 The 18-month trial in Leigh, which including the new speed limit and the installation of “miniature” speed bumps, began in December 2023.

 A subsequent public consultation launched in January this year found residents are in favour of the scheme, which saw the following roads affected: Salisbury Road, north of Hadleigh Road; Southsea Avenue, north and south of Glendale Gardens; Lymington Avenue, north and south of Glendale Gardens; Leighville Grove, Grange Road, and Glendale Gardens.

 Bernard Arscott, leader of Leigh Town Council, said that despite the scheme proving popular, there were also drawbacks.

 He reportedly said: “I know it’s something that has been popular, but I’ve had some reservations about this.

 “I understand the intention behind it to improve road safety and make the roads safer for children going to school, but the problem is both Southsea and Lymington Avenue fall into the North Street catchment area.

“Whilst you are slowing traffic down and it will potentially reduce risk of injury or potential fatality, if children get used to 20mph and then they come to Elm Road, which is a 30mph, it gives them a false sense of security.”

 Coun Arscott added: “Unless you make all the roads in the area 20mph I have a concern it could have unintended consequences.

 “Also, if someone is going to speed in a 30mph zone, the ones who speed anyway aren’t going to pay attention to it.”

 The Leigh scheme is set to be debated by Southend Council, with future plans possibly for rolling it out across the whole of Southend.

 Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, reportedly said: “I support reduced speed limits in residential areas where the community backs them, especially to improve road safety around schools and quiet streets.”

 Coun Cowan added: “While there are currently no plans to introduce 20mph speed limits elsewhere, if next week’s meeting approves the proposals in Leigh, this may help shape future plans and decisions in line with community wishes and requests.”

Picture: Glendale Gardens. Pic Google Maps

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