Agenda item

To receive and consider correspondence regarding the proposed introduction of 20mph speed limit in the neighbouring parish of Hailey. This item was referred to the committee from the meeting of the Council on 14 October 2024.  (Minute 589 Refers)

Note: The consultation date has passed therefore any response would be heard verbally at the Public Decision Meeting of OCC on 14 November.

The Committee received and considered the correspondence received from Oxfordshire County Council regarding the proposed introduction of a 20mph scheme in the neighbouring parish of Hailey.

The item had been referred to the Committee from the meeting of the Council on 14 October (Minute 589 refers). Officers advised the closing date for the consultation had passed however, OCC Officers had confirmed that a response was still able to be submitted and would be heard verbally when the matter was considered.

Members were in favour of supporting the scheme having seen improvements in the Town since the introduction of the 20mph scheme in 2022. Members wanted to stress the importance of reduction of emissions and the improvement in Air Quality, as well as the potential benefits of road safety.

Resolved:

That, the following response be submitted to Oxfordshire Country Council.

As a neighbouring parish where lower speed limits were introduced in 2022, Witney Town Council supports the introduction of 20mph speed restrictions in Hailey village which will help provide continuity for residents of Witney and West Oxfordshire. Its introduction would also improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians in the area and compliment the proposed active travel proposals for the Hailey Road corridor which are detailed in the Witney Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP)

A reduction to 20mph helps realise Oxfordshire County Council’s Vision Zero approach that, no human being should be killed or seriously injured as the result of a road collision; whichever mode of transport you are using. As stated in their Vision Zero Strategy, ‘At 20mph a pedestrian is likely to survive an impact with a motor vehicle whereas at 30mph the pedestrian is significantly more likely to be killed.’

Additionally, evidence published by the Welsh Government in June 2024, where a 20mph limit is implemented nationally, shows casualties have reduced on roads since the introduction of the 20mph speed limits in 2023.

The Town Council extols the benefits of 20mph speed limits which result in a healthier and safer walking, cycling, and driving environment. In Witney, Community Speedwatch sessions carried out in 20mph areas is showing evidence that tolerances to the 20mph limits are better than perceived.

Lastly, should the proposed North Witney Strategic Development Area proceed then this will bring Witney much closer to Hailey Village emphasising the need for consistency in the speed limits.