Countdown to rollout of 20mph in the Vale of Glamorgan
From 17 September 2023, the default 20mph speed limit will come into force on roads where people live, work and play in the Vale of Glamorgan, and across Wales. Some roads will remain at 30mph and the Vale is currently undergoing a consultation phase to determine which roads will their current speed limit.
The Welsh Government is changing the default speed limit to make streets safer by reducing the likelihood of collisions - and death or injury from them. The changes will happen on roads where streetlights are placed no more than 200 yards apart, usually located in residential and built-up areas which people use frequently.
The new legislation does not mean all roads will change to 20mph, some will remain at 30mph and will be known as exceptions. Every council in Wales is considering which streets in their area should remain at 30mph. You can see which roads are affected on DataMap Wales’ website or share your views with the Vale of Glamorgan Council directly on Participate Vale.
A Welsh public health study estimated that the 20mph default speed limit could result in:
Evidence shows that people feel more comfortable to walk and cycle when vehicle speeds are slower, and it is safer for children to walk to school; and older people, disabled people or people with additional needs are also more able to travel independently.
Deputy Minister for Climate Change, with responsibility for transport, Lee Waters said: “The evidence from around the world is very clear – reducing speed limits reduces collisions and saves lives. Slower speeds also help create a safer and more welcoming community, giving people the confidence to walk and cycle more, improving their health and wellbeing whilst protecting the environment.”
Cllr Mark Wilson, Vale of Glamorgan Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood and Building Services, said: “The 20mph legislation will completely transform where we live, work and go to school.
“By reducing the national speed limit, we hope this will help give people the confidence to choose more active forms of travel such as walking or cycling around their community, especially as we work to improve current and introduce new active travel routes and schemes in the Vale.”
“Research shows that speeds of 20mph or less greatly reduces the risk of road accidents and fatal injuries, so reducing speeds will not only save lives but build safer communities.”
You can find out more information about 20mph on the Welsh Government website, or to see how this affects your local streets.