Taunton town council is considering introducing a 20mph speed limit across parts or possibly the entirety of the town centre to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
The proposal was brought forward by local resident Michael Stembridge-Montavont during the annual town meeting held at the Brewhouse Theatre on March 24. He highlighted concerns about road safety on key streets such as Priory Avenue, Canon Street, and Magdalene Street, emphasizing that a reduced speed limit would reinforce Taunton’s identity as a ‘garden town.’
Town council leader Tom Deakin acknowledged the idea is under active consideration but noted progress has been slow due to significant implementation costs. Initial estimates suggested that introducing 20mph zones could cost around £15,000 per road, prompting the council to pursue a data-driven approach before committing funds.
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In the meantime, the council has deployed speed indicator devices around the town to monitor vehicle speeds in various areas. This data is being collected to identify traffic hotspots where a speed reduction would be most beneficial. Deakin explained, “We want to ensure that when we invest, it’s in the right places that will have the greatest impact.”
Any final decision to change speed limits in Taunton’s town centre would require approval from Somerset Council, the authority responsible for the county’s roads. Meanwhile, local residents remain hopeful that lowering speed limits will make the town safer and more welcoming for all.