Decision details

Consideration and decision required whether or not to make the Traffic Regulation Order to install 20mph speed limits across various streets in Harrogate in light of the objections received.

The order for a 20mph speed limit, as set out in Appendix A of the report, is approved.

The proposed 20mph speed limit aligns with several of the Council’s priorities linked with Highway Safety, Place and Environment and Health and Well Being. By introducing a reduced speed limit from 30mph to 20mph in these areas it is hoped that a safer and healthier environment will encourage enhanced active travel opportunities for all ages of the community, this may be walking, wheeling, accessibility to the bus or cycling. The benefits of promoting safer and healthier streets by the implementation of 20mph speed limits in this area, which has a high proportion of schools, outweighs the negatives and achieves the objectives of road safety and healthier travel in the current Local Transport Plan. The decision also complies with Section 122 of Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

The alternative to implementing the proposed 20mph speed limit would be to keep the current speed limits on these streets which is 30mph. This is the standard speed limit for built up/residential areas across the country. Any change to speed limit however cannot be done without a Traffic Regulation Order.