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Plans for new 30mph zones move into top gear
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NEW 30mph speed limits in Test villages are a step closer.

Hampshire's cabinet has given the green light to a six-week public consultation on plans to introduce the new limits at Mottisfont, Ampfield, Braishfield and Wellow.

However, the police are only supporting the proposed Mottisfont village centre 30mph zone, which includes sections of Oakley Road, Mottisfont Lane, Church Lane and small areas of Hatt Lane and Benger's Lane.

advertisementPolice believe traffic-calming measures are needed in the other three villages before 30mph limits can be put in places. Officers have also expressed concern that pedestrians and cyclists may not be so vigilant if 30mph zones are applied.

Chairman of the county's Test Valley Hampshire Action Team, Roy Perry, hopes the new measures will be introduced swiftly.

"With the exception of Braishfield, where I am aware of differences of opinion in the village, I believe these proposals will face no serious objection, unless the police decide to make a formal objection at this stage.
"In the case of Wellow, which I represent, I know there is overwhelming support to extend the 30mph limit the whole length of Romsey Road. This road has in it the village primary school and the very popular Carlo's ice cream parlour and yet, for the part of its length, where there is no footpath, the speed limit is 40mph," said Cllr Perry.

Hampshire's leader, Ken Thornber, is keen to see 30mph limits in all villages. "Cabinet believes it is appropriate for villages to be offered a 30mph limit, even if they do not enjoy police support, because they may not be self-enforcing. "

Officers have also expressed concern that pedestrians and cyclists may not be so vigilant if 30mph zones are applied.