Speed limit changes on the way
Look out for more speed limit changes as new guidance for local authorities in setting local speed limits was published today by the Department for Transport (DfT).
It's designed to promote greater clarity and consistency, reckons the DfT, and covers the setting of all local speed limits on single and dual carriageway roads where drivers should adopt a different speed to the national limit.
Traffic Authorities have specifically been asked to review the speed limits on all of their A and B roads and implement any changes by 2011.
Roads minister Stephen Ladyman said: "Realistic and consistent speed limits help to keep traffic moving freely and safely. Our new guidance encourages lowering speed limits where the evidence warrants it but equally traffic authorities should consider increasing limits if it can be done safely.
"The guidance also encourages traffic authorities to set limits that reflect the road environment and characteristic, and which drivers will instinctively understand."
The new guidance takes account of important road safety developments over the last decade including speed limits in villages and 20mph speed limits and zones.
There are no plans to change national speed limits. Oh well...