Pembrokeshire continues reviewing 20mph limits, addressing feedback. Vandalism costs rise, but collisions see sharp drop.
Councilor Rhys Sinnett said they will use feedback and review limits settlement by settlement next year. If they suggest a change, residents can give direct feedback, after which they will consult about changing limits and might bring back 30 mph zones. Sinnett is happy with collision reduction stats, as fewer people got hurt or died since the 20 mph limit started.
The council stated vandalism hasn’t stopped enforcement, although sign replacement cost about £4,000 for materials. Police data shows Welsh road collisions are very low from July to September 2024, the lowest since records began, even counting pandemic times. January 30 data includes the first year of the 20 mph limit.
Wales had 100 fewer serious road injuries or deaths compared to the year before. It compares the year after the limit to the year before, including roads with both 20 mph and 30 mph limits. From July to September 2024, casualties were the lowest ever.
The number of casualties fell 28% in the year to September 2024 after implementing 20 mph on 20 and 30 mph roads, versus last year. Pembrokeshire’s casualty numbers saw similar drops, going from 125 to 89 after implementing the limit.
Sinnett knows the 20 mph scheme has mixed reviews. He said collisions are at their lowest level for this quarter. Sadly, vandalism of 20 mph signs still happens in Pembrokeshire. Ken Skates said they listen to people on the policy and empower local authorities to make safe changes.