New 20mph zones set for roads near two schools

Two 20mph zones would cover a total of 27 streets, if approved

New 20mph speed limits are set to be introduced on dozens of roads near two Leicester schools.

The traffic rules have been proposed in a bid to reduce accidents and encourage more people to walk and cycle, council documents show.

One of the zones would cover 19 streets in the Brading Road area, near Stokeswood Park, where the new Brook Mead Academy is to be based.

The second would cover eight roads close to St Thomas More Primary School, in the Knighton Road area.

Papers submitted to Leicester City Council include other traffic calming measures, such as speed humps, for both areas.

The schemes, which have been recommended for approval by council officers, are expected to cost the council about £80,000.

Last week it emerged that 51 other city streets in Aylestone and Netherhall were to have new speed restrictions implemented.

These have been welcomed by residents who described the changes as a "step in the right direction".

Council documents state the two latest schemes also have the backing of local residents – with some said to want the council to go even further.

Assistant city mayor for environment and transport Geoff Whittle will now review the proposals before deciding whether to approve or reject them.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.