Posted on: Tuesday 14 February 2023
Cabinet members have approved Torfaen Council's plans for the roll out of new 20mph legislation later this year.
From September 17, 2023, all residential roads in Wales which are currently 30mph by default - those with street lights and no speed signs - will automatically become 20mph.
The aim is to reduce the speed of traffic in built up areas to improve road safety for pedestrians and cyclists, especially children.
The new legislation allows local authorities to request some roads remain 30mph where they meet certain criteria, such as few or no houses, no schools or hospitals and no other local factors that warrant a lower speed limit.
Earlier today, cabinet members were told the Council's highways team had identified 36 exceptions - roads they believe should remain at 30mph.
They have proposed Experimental Traffic Regulation Orders are put in place along the routes, which will then be reviewed over an 18 month period to assess if the 30mph limit is appropriate, or if it should be reduced to 20mph.
Cabinet members approved the approach but recommended plans for sections of the B4246 and A4043 in Abersychan be reviewed in consultation with local members.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: "The Welsh Government's decision to introduce a 20mph speed limit in residential areas will make our streets safer for children and other pedestrians and cyclists. It will help to reduce the risk of accidents and the risk of serious injury if an accident does happen.
"We're also hoping that by forcing cars to travel at a slower speed, more people will consider waling or cycling around their local areas which will benefit people's health and be better for the environment."
According to the report, officers have been working with local public transport providers and council teams such as the community meals service and domiciliary care to assess potential impact services.
They have also met with Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and other Gwent authorities, including Monmouthshire County Council, which recently implemented pilot 20mph areas.
You can find out more about the roll out of 20mph default speed limit in the cabinet report. You can also find out about active travel routes in your area here.