News from Westminster Labour

Labour calls for 20mph speed limit on residential roads in Westminster

Labour Councillors have called on Westminster City Council to introduce a 20 mph speed limit on residential roads in order to cut road deaths and accidents.

Research from the London School of Hygene and Tropical Medicine has found that 20 mph zones were associated with a 40 per cent reduction in casualties. The greatest reduction, according to the research, was among among children and the seriously injured. In addition, pedestrian injuries were reduced by nearly a third and cycling casualties by 17 per cent. In areas adjacent to 20 mph zones casualties fell by 8 per cent.

20 mph zones are being introduced in Islington, Hackney and Merton.

Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, Leader of the Labour Group said:

“Residents in all parts of Westminster, from Queen’s Park to Belgravia, would benefit from a 20 mph speed limit on all residential roads. Increasing road safety is vital in Westminster, where there so many cars and so many accidents. Residents have told us that this is a priority for them. Cutting road deaths and injuries could be achieved by this simple and effective method. There is no reason why cars should need to travel at more than 20 mph in residential areas, particularly if this speed limit will save children’s lives.”

Other news from Westminster Labour

• Twelve questions for the next Leader of Westminster Council - 10 February 2012
• Westminster Council joint bottom of London league for Adult Social Care - 6 February 2012
• Westminster Labour calls for an 'outbreak of democracy' over election of new council Leader - 2 February 2012