The council is going to spend around £50,000 reducing speed limits on Newtown Road in Newbury.
West Berkshire Council is set to invest approximately £50,000 in lowering speed limits on Newtown Road in Newbury.
Despite police objections, who deem the speed cuts a 'low priority for enforcement', the council is moving forward with plans for Newtown Road, Oxford Road, and Long Lane.
Thames Valley Police have stated that if the limits are reduced, enforcement will not be a priority.
The council’s highways team warns that additional measures may be needed to ensure compliance if the speed limits are changed.
The proposed changes include reducing the speed limit on Newtown Road from 50mph to 40mph on the A339, and to 30mph on the A339/Pinchington Lane/Monks Lane roundabout. Oxford Road, Donnington, Long Lane in Shaw, and Sulhamstead Hill will also see new 30mph limits.
Public consultations garnered 506 responses overall, with more support than opposition for the proposals. For Newtown Road specifically, 140 responses were in favour, while 99 were against.
Opponents argue that funds should be allocated for road maintenance instead and that a speed reduction may worsen congestion.
The funding for these changes will come from a dedicated capital budget for speed limit adjustments, with an aim to implement the reductions with enhanced signage at each site.
The council plans to inform objectors of the decision accordingly.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
