South Bristol 20mph zone gets the go-ahead

One of the latest Cycling City projects to make cycling safer in Bristol has just been approved.

On Thursday, 25 February city councillors gave the go-ahead to a scheme to reduce traffic speeds in most of Southville, Bedminster and Windmill Hill.

The main aim is to double the numbers of people cycling by reducing road casualties and making our streets safer for cycling. These proposals will also go some way towards transforming residential streets into vibrant people-centred environments.

Councillor Gary Hopkins said: "Hopefully, we can radically change the way the city functions. I believe that in the vast majority of areas it will be welcomed. I have been asking people in my area 'would you want this?' and they are saying yes."

Councillor Mark Wright said: "The difference between 20mph and 30mph is so noticeable. In terms of reaction time it's a huge difference. It is clear to me that in urban areas we should simply be driving at 20mph on the non-trunk roads obviously. In my ward people are saying 'why isn't this happening here?' I hope we will be rolling it out soon."

Installing the necessary signs will cost approximately £250,000, but beyond that there will not be speed cameras or physical traffic calming, such as speed humps.

Plans for areas in east Bristol are set to go before Cabinet in the next few months.