Council praised for 20mph scheme

WARRINGTON Borough Council’s “Transport for Warrington” team have received national recognition for their 20mph scheme.
The council was recognised at the annual awards of both the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation North West and the Highways Magazine for their 20mph speed limit project and the benefits it has had on the community.
The initiative was praised because of the approach taken to understand the potential benefits of 20mph speed limits and the innovative methods used to implement the project.
An initial pilot study was launched in 2009 to see whether a 20mph speed limit could deliver benefits to communities. The study targeted Orford, Park Road and the town centre and over 18 months, there was a 1.45mph average reduction in traffic speed and 25 per cent reduction in reported injury traffic collisions.
The council then rolled out 20mph speed limits across the majority of residential roads.
There is now 510km of road with new 20mph speed limits. The project was delivered 12 months ahead of schedule and cost £160,000 under budget estimates.
Cllr Linda Dirir (pictured), the council’s lead member for highways, transportation and climate change, said: “The 20mph speed limit has huge benefits for the town and it’s great to see this being recognised.
“We’re always looking at ways to improve the safety of our residents and the roads that they use and we’re committed to delivering projects as cost effectively as possible. Congratulations to the Transport for Warrington team and well done.”