The decision to impose restrictions on 20mph speed limits serves as a stark reminder of the detachment of politics from evidence-based policy. In the past, even Conservative governments prioritized the issue of road casualties and took steps to address it.
During the late 1980s, local authorities were assigned a government target of reducing casualties by 40% within five years. This goal was achieved through a combination of speed limits and physical measures, requiring meticulous engineering design, extensive consultation, and implementation efforts. Despite facing controversy, as many motorists believed they drove faultlessly, residents grew tired of the challenges they faced when crossing roads for shopping or ensuring their children’s safety on the way to school. Remarkably, the target for casualty reduction was not only met but exceeded, with the use of 20mph speed limits playing a critical role. Thanks to the bold decisions made by politicians in the face of opposition from drivers and the media, thousands of lives were saved, and countless individuals enjoy good health today.
In addition to the implementation of 20mph speed limits, we transformed the city center by closing off 30 streets to traffic, creating a network of vibrant and pedestrian-friendly areas that are now enjoyed by millions of tourists each year. It is worth noting that the advocate of these sensible policies for accident reduction was none other than Peter Bottomley MP, who served as the transport minister at the time. Perhaps the current prime minister could seek wise counsel from him.
Reflecting on my own experience, as the chair of highways and transportation in Lancashire county council during the late 1990s, I vividly recall the moment when we were informed that the authority to determine 20mph zones had been devolved to local highway authorities. This news filled me with great exhilaration and unyielding enthusiasm. Ensuring road safety remained our top priority at all times.
To swiftly identify priority areas for implementation, I quickly devised a set of criteria. Our focus was primarily on establishing 20mph zones outside primary schools, within networks of terraced streets commonly found in Lancashire, and within residential estates. Given the urgency of the situation, as we were halfway through the financial year, we sought assistance from the individual districts within Lancashire. It was through competitive bids that we efficiently implemented schemes. Pendle district council was the first to submit their bid, and we were able to promptly establish numerous projects while planning for comprehensive county-wide coverage in the years to come. This decision stands as one of my proudest achievements in local politics.
Shockingly, Department for Transport figures reveal that a staggering 86% of motorists drive at speeds exceeding 20mph in designated 20mph zones. As a resident of a road with a 20mph limit, I can personally attest that 86% is an underestimation. Drivers often flout these limits due to their significant presence in the electorate, which comprises 35 million individuals. Consequently, one may question the efficacy of imposing restrictions on a policy that seems largely inconsequential. Unfortunately, the answer lies in the realm of politics.
The true culprits in this matter are the advertising agencies that have spent a century glorifying cars and placing them at the center of our lives. Motorists merely mimic the behaviors depicted in advertisements. Furthermore, it is plausible to argue that the advertising industry shares equal responsibility with the more criticized fossil fuel industries for exacerbating the climate emergency.
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