Slower is safer as 20mph limits come into effect

Motorists are being advised that 20mph speed limits come into force across large parts of Birmingham from Monday (October 10).

The speed limits will apply on residential roads in all or parts of Aston, Bordesley Green, Brandwood, Hodge Hill, Ladywood, Moseley and Kings Heath, Nechells, South Yardley, Sparkbrook, Springfield and Washwood Heath.

Although signs and road markings have been in place in these areas from the beginning of the year to encourage drivers to slow down in residential roads and local centres, motorists who exceed 20mph on these routes from Monday could find themselves being pulled over by the police.

Councillor Stewart Stacey, cabinet member for transport and roads at Birmingham City Council, said: “This isn’t about trying to catch people out – it’s about making our roads safer for all who use them, whether they are children or adults and whether they are pedestrians, cyclists or motorists.

“A car travelling at 30mph takes twice as long to stop as a car travelling at 20mph. And if you are hit at 20mph you are a lot less likely to be killed or seriously injured than if you are hit by a car travelling at 30mph. As far as I am concerned, safety is paramount on our city’s roads, so our message is loud and clear: slower is safer.

“And while anyone breaking the speed limit can expect to be pulled over by the police, this campaign is also about educating people on why this 20mph limit is safer. We will be encouraging them to think about their behaviour on the roads and if they have not already done so, to change it for the benefit of all.”

Further details of the 20mph limits can be found on our 20mph web pages.

Birmingham City Council’s road safety team will be out and about around the city, including in schools, over the coming weeks to raise awareness of the 20mph limits and promote the ‘slower is safer’ message.

The council has just finished consulting on implementing 20mph limits in the Central South West Birmingham area, covering all or parts of Edgbaston, Harborne, Selly Oak and Bournville, and will now consider the feedback received.