Campaigners are pushing for Bath to become England’s first city to enforce a full 20mph speed limit throughout its streets.
The city has already taken significant strides, with the 20mph limit set to cover the entire north side of the River Avon by April 2027. Now, advocates are urging Bath and North East Somerset Council to extend this safer speed limit to the remaining eight and a half miles of 30mph roads on the south side of the river.
The ‘Bath 20mph City’ campaign has gathered around 250 petition signatures. Campaign spokesperson Guy Hodgson likened driving at 30mph in residential and recreational areas to “indoor smoking,” highlighting the health and safety risks involved. He emphasized that once 30mph limits disappear in these spaces, people will look back in disbelief at how such hazards were tolerated for so long.
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Transport expert Pete Dyson from the University of Bath praised the existing 20mph zones, such as on London Road, noting improvements in safety, reduced pollution, and better pedestrian access. He stressed the importance of expanding these benefits to all neighborhoods.
Speaking to the council cabinet on July 2, Hodgson pointed out that 20mph reduces collision severity by allowing more reaction time and lowering impact energy, leading to fewer injuries and fatalities. He added that even at 20mph, cars travel on average 67 times faster than pedestrians, underscoring the need for cautious driving. The campaign estimates the cost of implementing the full 20mph limit at just £15,000, a modest investment for enhanced public safety.
Lucy Hodge, cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, affirmed the council’s commitment to introducing 20mph limits where residents have requested them, recognizing the critical safety benefits, especially for schoolchildren.
Hodgson concluded by urging all Bath residents to support the campaign, ensuring that everyone, particularly children, can enjoy safer streets as half the city is already transitioning to 20mph. Hundreds have signed the petition, and more voices are needed to make the city completely safe.