Plans for more 20mph zones in Sutton and Cheam 'could cause congestion'
Briefly

Since the implementation of the consultation on the speed limits, many residents feel that lowering the limit to 20mph may actually lead to increased frustration and congestion on the roads. Concerns have been raised that while the council's intention is to increase safety, the reality may be more complex as local drivers accustomed to the existing limits may struggle with the changes.
The Sutton Council emphasizes the safety aspect of the change, stating that reducing speeds reduces the risk of accidents significantly. According to their data, a pedestrian who is hit at 20mph has a five times lower risk of dying compared to being hit at 30mph. This highlights the vital importance of speed limits in protecting vulnerable road users, especially in residential areas where children and pedestrians are prevalent.
Despite Sutton Council's aggressive push for safety with the 20mph limit, many residents, such as Alan Onslow, express skepticism. He notes that he typically drives around 20mph already, suggesting that the changes might not yield the expected improvements in safety but could lead to unintended consequences like bottlenecks and increased frustration for drivers handling daily commutes in the area.
Local reactions have sparked significant discussion about the potential impacts of the proposed speed limit changes. While some residents acknowledge the council’s intentions for safety, the community remains divided over whether the adjustments will increase comfort for pedestrians and cyclists or merely exacerbate traffic issues, highlighting a critical dialogue about urban planning and public safety.
Read at www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk
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