In Glastonbury, drivers are frequently disregarding the town’s 20mph speed limits, raising serious safety concerns. Glastonbury Speedwatch, a local community group, is calling on the town council to take immediate action to address the issue.
At the July meeting of Glastonbury Town Council, Christine Prior, representing Glastonbury Speedwatch, appealed for increased public awareness and enhanced safety measures. She expressed gratitude to the council, especially Councillor Liz Leyshon, for successfully lowering speed limits through Somerset Council. However, Christine warned that many motorists continue to speed at 30mph in designated 20mph zones.
“It feels like we have a two-speed system,” she stated. “Many drivers simply ignore the signs. But slower driving doesn’t cause delays – congestion and traffic lights do. Traveling at 20mph might only add a minute to your journey.”
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Christine emphasized the grave dangers of speeding, particularly for children. “A child struck by a vehicle at 30mph is three times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than at 20mph,” she said. “Anyone caring for young children knows how unpredictable they are. The potential consequences are devastating.”
Besides saving lives, reducing speed limits brings environmental benefits. Data from insurer AXA shows that driving at 20mph can reduce CO2 and nitrogen oxide emissions by 25%, and noise pollution is halved compared to driving at 30mph.
Glastonbury Speedwatch also proposed expanding 20mph zones throughout the town and installing a second speed detection device to assist council staff in monitoring compliance more effectively.
The group further requested adding three pedestrian crossings at key locations: the Wirral roundabout, outside St Dunstan’s School, and along the A39. Christine also highlighted the need for clearer signage between the Wirral Park roundabout and Morrisons supermarket, where current speed limit signs are confusing.
With child safety and environmental health at stake, the group urges the council to prioritize these improvements without delay.