Hackney rolls out 20mph on majority of roads in bid to cut accidents

 
Following suit: Neighbouring borough Islington already has 20mph speed limits
Alexandra Rucki26 February 2015

A 20mph speed limit is being rolled out across Hackney in a bid to reduce road traffic accidents.

Collisions in the borough have reportedly dropped by 50 per cent on streets where 20mph limits were introduced in 2008.

Hackney Council said it is now introducing the limit on more roads to improve conditions for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.

The restrictions will apply to all roads in the borough apart from Ruckholt Road and Transport for London red routes.

There will be signs in place to alert motorists and police will issue fines to anyone breaking the limit, Hackney Council said.

Councillor Feryal Demirci, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “As London's top walking and cycling borough this roll-out makes sense.

“Lower speeds will see a calmer and safer environment, and we hope to have more walking and playing outside, which in turn will have a positive impact on health and the community.

“Speed limits and 20mph zones have already cut casualties on our residential streets but we can always do more to prevent accidents and improve the quality of life for our residents. We hope by extending this we can reduce casualties by a further 10 per cent.”

Tom Platt, London policy manager for pedestrian charity Living Streets, said: “Hackney’s roll-out of 20mph is good news for everyone who lives, works or visits the borough.

“Councils across London are now recognising that lower speed limits significantly improve the quality of our streets, reducing road danger and creating more inviting places to walk and spend time. Making walking safer and easier is the best way to encourage people to build some physical activity into their day.”

A consultation will run from March 9 to 29 with plans to introduce the 20mph limit later this year.

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