The UK's Labour Party has announced its support for plans to implement 20mph or lower speed limits across all new housing developments. This initiative is part of broader guidance aimed at reshaping residential areas to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
The guidance, outlined in Homes England's Building for a Healthy Life, also encourages narrower roads, with recommended junction and side street corner widths of no more than three meters to slow turning traffic. Additionally, it advocates for unallocated on-street parking to discourage pavement parking and the promotion of car-sharing schemes and car clubs to reduce private car ownership and improve land use efficiency.
Dr. Jeanelle de Gruchy, England's deputy chief medical officer, endorsed the report, stating that the guidance provides a "useful toolkit" to embed healthy choices like walking, wheeling, and cycling into daily life. The recommendations also call for more cycle-friendly streets with pedestrian and cycle priority at junctions.
However, the proposals have met with criticism. Brian Gregory of the Alliance of British Drivers argued that widespread 20mph limits are not primarily about road safety but are intended to force people out of their cars. He also raised concerns that such limits could increase emissions due to stop-start driving and potentially delay emergency vehicle response times, possibly leading to more fatalities than they prevent.
This move by Labour comes as 20mph zones in areas where the party has implemented them have reportedly seen a significant increase in speeding violations. Birmingham City Council recently announced its intention to become England's first 20mph city by lowering speed limits on all non-A class roads.
A government spokesperson stated that the current administration prioritizes providing reliable, affordable, and convenient transport options and is committed to supporting drivers. The spokesperson highlighted a record £7.3 billion investment in local highways maintenance over the next four years, aimed at addressing road conditions and filling potholes.