Posted on: Wednesday 5 July 2023
Work to install new road signs will begin next week ahead of the introduction of a new 20mph speed limit.
From 17 September 2023, the default speed limit in built-up areas in Wales will reduce from 30mph to 20mph. These include roads where street lights are placed no more than 200 yards apart.
The Welsh Government is introducing the legislation to make roads safer, reduce road collisions, encourage more people to walk and cycle, to improve health and wellbeing and to safeguard the environment for future generations.
From next week, work to install posts and signs will begin in Cwmbran and is expected to take six weeks.
Work on routes in Pontypool, Blaenavon and Ponthir will start in mid-August and be completed by 17 September. The scheme is fully funded by the Welsh Government.
All new signs will be covered until the new legislation comes into force and redundant 30mph signs and road markings will be removed closer to implementation date.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for Environment, said: "As a council we are doing all we can to ensure drivers are aware of the new speed limit and road infrastructure reflects the new speed limit as soon as it comes into force.
"While this will be a significant change for motorists, it's important to remember the new lower speed limit will make routes safer for other road users such as cyclists and pedestrians including children, people with disabilities, older people and parents with prams or pushchairs."
While most default 30mph roads will automatically reduce to 20mph, the council has applied to Welsh Government for 36 exceptions which will remain 30mph for 18 months while a review is under way. You can see the list of 30mph exceptions on our website.
It's estimated travelling at 20mph will add just one minute per mile to car journeys. For more information about the new speed limit, visit the 20mph information on our website.
If you would like information about replacing short car journeys with walking or cycling, visit the active travel information on our website.