Starting from September 17, 2023, a new default speed limit of 20mph will be implemented on roads within residential, work, and recreational areas in Powys and across Wales.
However, certain roads will still maintain a speed limit of 30mph. Powys County Council will be engaging in consultations with local communities to determine which roads will retain their current speed limits.
The objective behind this change, initiated by the Welsh Government, is to enhance road safety by reducing the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The alterations will primarily be implemented on roads where streetlights are situated no more than 200 yards apart. Such roads are typically found in areas with dense population or frequent usage.
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It is important to note that not all roads will be subject to the 20mph speed limit. Some roads will continue to have a speed limit of 30mph, referred to as exceptions. Each council in Wales will evaluate the streets in their respective regions to determine which ones should retain the 30mph limit. A map indicating these exceptions in Newtown can be found below.
Research demonstrates that individuals are more inclined to walk and cycle when vehicle speeds are lower, creating a greater sense of comfort. Additionally, slower speeds contribute to safer routes for children walking to school and enable greater independent mobility for older people, individuals with disabilities, and those with additional needs.
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."
"The Welsh Government have taken a bold move to implement the new 20mph default speed limit across the country," explains Cllr Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, "but the benefits we can hope to see around slower driving speeds, improved safety and increased levels of cycling and walking, will go a long way to outweigh any reluctance for change.
"The new 20mph speed limit will also complement our increasing network of active travel routes across the county, where we encourage people to make short, local journeys on foot or bicycle, rather than the car. It is especially hoped that more Powys families will confidently choose to walk or cycle to and from school, knowing the roads will be safer."
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