Posted on: Wednesday 6 September 2023
Work has begun to remove road signs in Torfaen 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. This includes 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 and to safeguard the environment for future generations.
From this week, various speed limit road signage will be removed. This includes 20mph zones signs outside schools because these roads will be subject to the default 20mph limit from 17 September.
Reminder 20mph signs and those that indicate the start of 30mph roads have been installed and will be uncovered in the lead up to the new default 20mph speed limit coming into force.
Drivers are asked to continue to drive responsibly at current speed limits until the new limit comes into place.
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 identified 37 routes 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 or Welsh Government's website WG 20mph speed limits
If you would like information about replacing short car journeys with walking or cycling, visit the active travel information on our website.