Public meeting to debate traffic and 20mph limit

Traffic issues will see residents debate implementing a 20mph speed limit in Storrington

Traffic issues in a West Sussex town will be discussed at an open meeting including potentially implementing a 20mph speed limit.

Motorists "driving like lunatics" and large lorries passing narrow footpaths are among the problems facing the area, Storrington residents are reporting

Petitions will now be heard for and against applying the 20mph limit, with both sides agreeing that something has to be done.

Campaigners for the lower limit say it is "the only practical solution that is affordable" but opponents say the limit would affect the entire town.

Claudia Fisher, who represents Storrington and Washington on Horsham District Council, said: "We need to do something to help make sure that Storrington is protected from the sheer volume and speed and type of traffic that comes through."

'We should feel safe'

Storrington is one of only two villages in West Sussex to have an Air Quality Management Area, covering the high street area where traffic is particularly heavy.

Alongside traffic issues, residents have raised concerns over air and noise pollution, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Marguerite McIntyre, 89, says if she wants to have a conversation with visitors, she cannot open her windows due to the traffic noise which starts early in the morning.

John Loney, vice-chair of Storrington & Sullington Parish Council and chair of the traffic and transport committee, said the parish was working with the county council and police to tackle the traffic issues.

He said: "As a parish council, we support a 20mph limit where people live, work, play and learn — because we believe our villages should feel safe, welcoming, and walkable for all."

Last year a bid to have 20mph speed limits in all residential streets in Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea failed, and Brighton's plans which were passed in 2012 had been initially rejected on the grounds of the cost of introducing traffic calming measures.

The public meeting will be held at Chanctonbury Leisure Centre from 19:00 BST on Friday.