Wrexham Council aims to reverse 20mph limits on 52 roads by May 2025 after public consultation favored 30mph.
The Welsh Government made many roads 20mph in 2023. In response, a large petition challenged this policy change. The government then allowed councils to consult residents and revert roads back to 30mph if wanted.
Wrexham Council consulted the public in December and January. The results showed that most people (93%) favored restoring 30mph limits, specifically on those 52 roads.
David Bithell stated they followed government guidance, noting many people asked to go back to 30mph. Views were diverse; others wanted to keep the 20mph limit. Groups like UK Cycling also gave their views, ensuring safety was a key factor. The council aims to fix a problem created by the government and worked closely with the Cabinet Secretary.
Darren Williams has the authority change the speed limit. However, the board wanted collective responsibility due to the large implication that exists. Legal problems could arise relating to road accidents.
The council hasn’t been excused from legal liability. These changes are local speed limits, and the council wants to share the decision. As the Welsh Government sent no correspondence about liability, it rests with the local authority.
The council will change speeds by May 2025 and will work with Go Safe. They also intend to consider other roads carefully.
The plan received support across the chamber. Rob Walsh called it was a controversial issue. He noted some residents might feel nervous but welcomed future road assessments.
Marc Jones supports the move generally but thinks the Welsh Government made some mistakes. Dana Davies mentioned road safety risks, believing 30mph limits will reduce risk.
The process now involves more community input. This will ensure safe changes clearly. An author named Alec Doyle wrote the article.
Some Welsh print publications will benefit again, as public money funds notices in newspapers. However, circulations of those papers are declining, meaning people now need to buy papers for road information.
The Welsh Government spent over £800k on ads promoting the 20mph rollout. The prior Minister, Lee Waters, felt this wasn’t sufficient. Online articles about 20mph also create traffic, particularly on social media sites.
The total cost for notices could reach £2 million. The 2022 rollout notices cost about £825k. The rollback is more complicated, leading to a higher expense. Plaid Cymru and Conservatives supported these print media subsidies.