20mph speed limits rolled out in the west of York

City of York Council is starting the roll out of 20mph speed limits in residential areas across the west of York.

From this week signs will be installed over a two-month period on the smaller, residential roads across the west of the city and road users are asked to keep a look out for these and keep within the new speed limit.

Schools and businesses in the area will receive leaflets and information explaining the reasons behind the scheme and how this impacts them directly; these will also be available online to download.

The scheme is the first main phase of the policy to introduce 20mph speed limits in residential areas across the city to help promote considerate driving, make walking and cycling more attractive and raise confidence in the safety of local neighbourhoods.

Councillor Dave Merrett, cabinet member for transport, planning and sustainability, said: “With significant reductions of up to 3mph (average speeds) in parts of Fishergate ward as a direct result of introducing a lower speed limit, this should prove to be a beneficial scheme.

“The introduction of lower speed limits, in accordance with the latest Government guidance, reduces speeds giving drivers more time to react to the presence of other road users, and reducing the likelihood and scale of any potential remaining collisions. We are seeking to increase driver and safety awareness on our roads as part of the roll out. We as a city are committed to making York’s roads safer.”