Controversial 20mph scheme set to expand

The scheme has proved controversial, with some 20mph signs like this one being daubed with graffiti

20mph speed limits look set to be further rolled out across a Merseyside borough.

Wirral Council plans to bring in the controversial lower speed limits in 20 extra areas.

The scheme has faced opposition and signs have been defaced by vandals since it started.

But the council said it believed the lower limits had the potential to save lives.

27 road deaths

Five people were killed on the borough's roads in 2022 and over six years, 27 were killed and 590 seriously injured, the council said.

The authority began introducing the scheme last year, with limits changed on over 2,500 roads to date.

A further 579 roads across the borough are set to be included, along with some main roads near 11 schools.

Since the rollout began, police have begun enforcing the limits and providing warnings for drivers.

In May, Merseyside Police said 170 fines had been issued for speeding above 20mph in Wirral, with 50 warning letters issued.

The council said it planned to finish the rollout on roads in 2025, funded by £300,000 from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

People have until 21 August to have their say on five different areas: Seacombe, Bidston and St James, Oxton, Birkenhead and Tranmere, Rock Ferry, and Bromborough.

The deadline for responses about Bebington, Clatterbridge and Upton is 28 August.

From Wednesday 7 August, people can have their say on a number of roads in Bidston, Greasby, Frankby and Irby, Moreton West and Saughall Massie, and Hoylake and Meols, with a deadline of 4 September.

People living in Greasby, Frankby and Irby, Pensby and Thingwall, and Heswall will be able to comment on more roads in these areas from 14 August until 11 September.

The consultation will then ask for opinions on roads near schools as well as further roads in Heswall, Upton, Greasby, Frankby and Irby from 21 August.

This will be the final chance for people to comment, as the consultation will close entirely on September 18.