The number of miles subject to 20mph speed limits on roads controlled by Transport for London (TfL) has more than tripled, according to figures obtained under Freedom of Information laws. In 2021, just 50 miles of roads under TfL's control had a 20mph limit, but this figure has increased to 166 miles as of March this year. This expansion means that nearly half of the approximately 360 miles of highways under TfL's jurisdiction in Greater London are now subject to the lower speed limit.
Critics, including Conservative shadow transport minister Greg Smith, have labeled the expansion as "the next, sadly predictable chapter in Labour’s war on motorists." The move comes amid broader concerns about what some perceive as an increase in measures impacting drivers in the capital, such as the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), increased Congestion Zone charges, and new river crossing tolls. Additionally, TfL has generated significant revenue from bus lane fines.
The rollout of 20mph zones is part of Mayor Khan's "Vision Zero" initiative, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on London's roads. TfL stated that evidence indicates 20mph speed limits save lives, citing research showing a 34% reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on borough roads after their introduction. However, the increased prevalence of these limits has led to controversy, with some drivers complaining they are being introduced on roads where they are unnecessary and are contributing to confusion, leading to more drivers being caught by speed cameras.
Nationally, figures from police forces revealed a substantial increase in drivers caught by speed cameras in 20mph zones, soaring from 21,125 in 2023 to 127,915 last year, a 500% jump across 22 police forces. The Mail reported that the largest increases in drivers being caught occurred in Labour-run areas, fueling accusations that drivers are being treated as a "cash cow." Speeding fines contribute tens of millions of pounds annually to the Treasury.