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SPEED LIMIT CRITERIA AGREED BY HIGHWAYS & ROAD SAFETY

SUB-COMMITTEE ON 3 SEPTEMBER 1998 AND REAFFIRMED

ON 18 FEBRUARY 1999

1. Settlements ─ A settlement is defined as the presence of 20 or more houses (or other buildings likely to generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic).
2. New 30mph Limits ─ Where new 30mph limits are proposed a degree of common sense should be applied, so that reasonable decisions are reached and that similar standards are maintained throughout the whole project.

As well as considering the start and finish of the speed limit itself, the location of the 30mph limits must also take account of the presence of vulnerable users (footpaths, bridleways immediately adjacent to the settlement), and future development, the proximity of junctions, available sightlines, the vertical and horizontal alignment of the road approaches and the distance to the next nearest settlement (see g).

3. New speed limits will normally commence 50 metres from the nearest house or building unless site conditions dictate otherwise.
4. Extensions to Existing 30mph limits ─ For consistency the whole of each settlement should be subject to the same 30mph speed limit, and therefore any extensions to current 30mph limits should be included in the project.
5. Existing 40/50mph limits ─ When there are settlements currently with 40 or 50 mph limits these should be converted to 30mph (see f).
6. Exceptions to 30mph Limits in Settlements ─ Departures from the introduction of 30mph limits should be minimal. Some town councils may request the introduction of a lower limit. It is proposed not to consider lower limits as part of this project but any requests should be included in the report on the consultation.

There may be locations where a 30mph limit is not reasonable and a higher limit be proposed. A case in point would be on a dual carriageway adjacent to a settlement. In such cases the Consultant shall discuss possible exceptions with the Nominated Officer and the relevant Parish Council. County Council member guidance may be required as the project progresses. When agreed the Consultant shall undertake and process such exceptions alongside the new 30mph limits.

7. Short Lengths of Road Between Settlements. Short lengths of road between settlements with 30mph limits (less than 800m) shall for consistency be subject to a 30mph limit.
   
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