Roads in Earley are set to get 20mph speed limits despite an uproar from some neighbours.
Roads in Earley look set to drop to 20mph despite an uproar from some neighbours.
Wokingham Borough Council has proposed reducing the limit on Culver Lane in the Whitegates area from 30mph (it already has speed bumps) to 20mph. A 20mph limit is also proposed for Palmerstone Road, which links Culver Lane with Church Road.
Residents were invited to comment during a public consultation in September and October. Of the 77 comments received, 46 objected and 31 supported the plans.
Angry drivers used strong language in their responses. One wrote: “20mph is ridiculously low. In my experience, the only people who support this draconian restriction are anti-car zealots, who should not be allowed to impose their fringe views on the majority, with the possible exception of short stretches outside schools at times when pupils are entering or leaving. A 30mph limit is quite low enough.”
Another objector said: “The road has zero justifications to have a 20mph limit, there are no schools, hospitals, etc on the road, it is a busy traffic route due to issues with traffic flow elsewhere in Reading council’s area, and a 20mph limit is completely unrealistic based on current use.”
Other comments included: “All these 20 mph speed restrictions are getting ridiculous – 30 mph is absolutely fine for most places….will cyclists keep to the 20 mph limit as well?” and “The balance is tipping too far against the motorist and the prevalence of 20mph limits is negative for the vast majority of people who are hard working, have families and need cars to get around quickly and efficiently.”
Supporters argued the change will make the roads safer. One wrote: “Reducing the speed limit to 20mph will increase road safety and comfort for all users, including motorists and people walking, wheeling and cycling.”
Another added: “20mph should be adopted on all residential roads in Woodley and Earley. Being hit at 20mph has a significant impact on survival rates compared with 30mph. It should be adopted in all residential roads in Wokingham Borough Council.”
The decision will be made by councillor Adrian Betteridge (Liberal Democrats, Barkham & Arborfield), the executive member for highways, in an individual member decision on Friday, January 9.
Culver Lane connects with Palmer Park Avenue in East Reading, which is already 20mph and has a one-way system. The borough boundary sits at the bridges for the A3290 and the Reading to Waterloo railway line.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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