New 20mph speed limit could be on the way for Whitton and Castle Hill in Ipswich
Meredith Road is currently 30 mph, but a consultation is underway to change it to a 20 mph zone. - Credit: Su Anderson
A new blanket 20mph speed limit could be in place across the Whitton and Castle Hill estates in Ipswich by the middle of the year.
Ipswich Borough Councillor Sophie Meudec, and Suffolk County Councillors Kathy Bole and Sandra Gage gather on Meredith Road where a 20 mph zone is in a consultation phase. - Credit: Su Anderson
After pressure from Labour Party councillors in the area a public consultation on the proposed speed limit has been launched in the north west of Ipswich – the consultation runs until the end of January.
Every road between Norwich Road and Henley Road as far as the East Suffolk Rail Line and the borough boundary would be covered. The speed limit would also extend along Dale Hall Lane in front of the primary school.
The county has worked with Ipswich council to prepare for the introduction of the limit.
Labour county councillor for north west Ipswich Kathy Bole said the limit was needed – there had been several incidents on roads on the estate over many years.
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She said: “There is widespread support for a new limit here. I really hope this can be brought in as soon as possible and make it a safer place for everyone.”
Labour transport spokeswoman Sandra Gage hoped there would be little opposition – and that the cost of introducing the new limit could be found.
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“We understand it would cost about £20,000 to put up the signs. Kathy has offered some of her locality budget and the borough has also agreed to make a contribution. I hope there will be no further problems.”
A spokeswoman for Suffolk County Council said if there were no objections to the proposals, the 20mph zone could come into force during within the next few months.
It is backed by the county’s cabinet member for transport Graham Newman. He said: “There is a general perception that streets feel safer when traffic speeds are restrained.
“This can lead to more pedestrians, cyclists venturing onto their local street for their daily commute, outside exercise or recreation, all of which we are keen to promote in pursuit of a healthier, less car-dependent life style.
“This is why the county council has made it easier for communities to apply for, and secure, lower speed limits off main roads in urban residential areas.
“I am pleased that local councillors have taken advantage of these new arrangements to propose the creation of a large 20mph zone in North West Ipswich.”
Residents can give their views, positive or negative, throughout the period. Consultation materials will be on display at Whitton Sports Centre and the Castle Hill Community Centre during opening hours until Friday week – January 23.
There is also an online survey, on Suffolk County Council’s website, where people can register comments until January 30.
