How does 20mph improve walking, cycling and overall wellbeing?

There is evidence from across the world that vehicle speeds are the main reason why people do not walk or cycle or do not allow their children to walk or cycle to school. (Source Gov.Wales)

Extending current 20mph zones across the rest of the borough will help encourage the use of more sustainable transport modes like cycling and walking with the associated environmental, social and economic benefits. Lower vehicle speeds make people feel more comfortable to walk and cycle and create safer streets for children walking to school. Older people, disabled people or people with additional needs feel more able to travel independently.

The 20mph limit will help reduce the level of air and noise pollution released from vehicles and will improve air quality for those in the immediate area. Lower speed limits will enable more people to choose active ways to travel and reduce the number of polluting vehicles on the roads. A study by Imperial College found that 20mph limited areas were “pollution neutral”. Many things contribute to pollution levels. They include:

• driving style
• acceleration
• braking
• vehicle condition
• distance travelled and
• engine temperature.

Reduce speeds to protect pedestrians

The World Health Organisation states that the most effective way to improve pedestrian safety is to reduce the speed of vehicles. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) conducted an analysis of vehicle speed in pedestrian fatalities in Great Britain found that 85% of pedestrians killed when struck by cars died in collisions that occurred at impact speeds below 40mph, 45% at less than 30 mph and 5% at speeds below 20 mph .(Source: Scots Gov) 

Slower cars will mean people can travel around the borough in their cars more safely and when travelling using other means such as walking or cycling. This will save lives and reduce the risk and severity of injuries from collisions between vehicles and vulnerable road users

Long-term environmental effects from the reduction in air pollution will allow future generations to live in a safe and prosperous borough.

Further evidence suggests:

• 20% chance of pedestrian fatality when hit at 30mph compared to a 2.5% chance at 20mph (Source: ROSPA) 
• 12% reduction in casualties in first year of 20mph limit in Brighton. (Source: Brighton and Hove) 
• 21% lower injury odds for cyclists from the introduction of 20mph limits alone (Source: University of Westminster)