New 20mph zones driven forward by council

New 20mph (32kph) speed limits are expected to come into force next year

A council's plans to lower speed limits to 20mph (32kph) on many of its roads have taken a step forward.

Westmorland and Furness Council wants to reduce speed limits on two dozen roads in built-up towns and villages.

Thousands of residents shared their views on the scheme, which will now progress to a statutory consultation.

Cabinet member for Highways, Peter Thornton, said the 20mph zones would make streets safer for those "walking, wheeling or cycling".

"We said we would listen to residents' views and we have heard from 5,200 people," he said.

"It has been a massive task to analyse all that feedback and amend schemes where appropriate, but it has been worth it."

The proposed speed limits would be in force on roads in Furness, South Lakeland and Eden early in 2026, the council said.

Twenty of the 20mph zones will progress as proposed but another four will be amended following community feedback.

But Thornton said feedback on plans to lower the speed limit in Castletown and Penrith was "not conclusive" so will be reconsidered next year.