The rules are changing on the road. Drivers are outraged.
Local authorities in Bournemouth want to reduce the speed limit to 20mph on 139 streets in the town in a move they say could save lives. Many drivers, however, talk about an exaggerated and difficult measure to accept.
The proposal covers several areas such as Winton, Charminster, Moordown and Talbot Woods. The plan is due to be considered by a transport advisory group and then go to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s cabinet on March 4.
Why the 20mph limit is wanted
Authorities say the goal is to reduce serious accidents, increase road safety and breathe cleaner air. The central argument is one of numbers: more than 200 road accident injuries were recorded in the targeted area between 2019 and 2023, including 36 serious cases. In the administration’s logic, lower speed in residential neighborhoods means lower impact, so fewer tragedies.
A controversial measure across the country
20mph zones have, in recent years, become a topic that divides whole communities in the UK. Critics say such limits are often ignored and not consistently enforced, making them a “paper” rule with no real effect on traffic. Supporters, on the other hand, cite the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, especially on narrow streets with cars parked on both sides.
A frequently cited example in public discussions is Wales, which introduced such a 20mph limit in 2023. Data from the first year showed a 28% drop in the number of people injured compared to the same period the previous year, with ten fewer deaths.
“It will take time for drivers to get used to it”
Local councilor Simon Bull, who represents the area of Winton East, says the change “will take time to adjust” but sees it as a positive step. In his view, many of the targeted streets are not suitable for higher speeds, precisely because of the narrow space and cars parked on both sides.
Public consultation: the city is divided
The formal consultation for the Traffic Regulation Order garnered 209 responses. 96 were in favor of the change, 105 were objections, and eight were general comments. In other words, the plan does not “easily” even pass the community filter: the support is there, but the opposition is greater.
When the proposal was put out to consultation, the BCP and Dorset Motorists Group opposed it and launched a petition, citing a lack of confidence in the Council’s traffic and transport strategy. The petition has gathered more than 3,000 signatures.
Steve Moody, the group’s chairman, says 20mph zones have their place, particularly near schools, but would prefer time-limited enforcement, not “24/7”.
What’s next
In the coming days, the proposal will be analyzed by the transport advisory group, and then on March 4 it will be discussed in the cabinet of the BCP Council. If given the go-ahead, the 20mph limit could become a reality on many streets in Bournemouth, in a decision which, although presented as a safety measure, has already sparked discontent among a significant number of motorists.
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