How 20mph limits are slowing drivers in Cornwall

Hayle is one of the latest communities to get the 20mph speed limit

New 20mph speed limits are proving effective at slowing drivers, say road safety leaders in Cornwall.

According to research for Cornwall Council, average speeds have been reduced in 20 of the 22 areas of Cornwall where the lower limits have been introduced.

Hayle and St Ives are among the latest places to get the new signs but some residents in Hayle are unhappy the speed limit changes five times through the town.

Cornwall Council's transport portfolio holder said the Hayle scheme had 70% support but promised the council would continue to review the situation.

The 20mph signs have sprung up throughout Hayle

20mph speed limits were first introduced in Cornwall in 2022, with Falmouth, Penryn and Camelford used as pilot areas.

Cornwall Council leaders said they hoped the new limits would make roads safer and reduce the number of accidents, deaths and injuries.

Council research now shows there has been a reduction in average speeds in 20 of the 22 areas where the lower limits have been brought in.

Falmouth and Penryn saw reductions in mean speed of up to 6.9mph (11.1kph).

Camelford saw a reduction in mean speeds of up to 5.7mph (9.1kph).

Local councillor Peter Channon said he would prefer Hayle to have a blanket 20mph speed limit

Since the 20mph zones were introduced, the speed limit along the 1.5 mile (2.4 km) main route through Hayle changes five times, from 30mph to 20mph and back again.

Peter Channon, Cornwall councillor for Hayle West, said: "We've got five changes of limit in a fairly short space which is not great really.

"But overall it is making people more aware of their speed and should lead to a reduction in collisions."

Surf shop owner Justin Lapskas said the new rules were confusing

Justin Lapskas, runs a surf shop called Down The Line in Copperhouse, just a short distance from the first change to 20mph.

He said: "I can see the necessity for 20mph but it's a bit confusing how it changes so many times.

"During the summer peak season people aren't going that fast anyway so I don't think it'll make any difference."

'Committed to reducing speeds'

Connor Donnithorne says the rollout will be completed by 2026

Cornwall Council's transport portfolio holder Connor Donnithorne said the authority was fully committed to the change.

"If we can replicate the results from Falmouth, Penryn and Camelford it will mean that we are making roads safer for people," he said.

"The road through Hayle has particular challenges. I do appreciate when it goes from 30 to 20 and back again it does seem confusing.

"We have reviewed it and made changes where appropriate and it is important to mention we have 70% support from the public in that consultation."

Bude, Launceston, Helston and South Kerrier will be the next areas to get the 20mph limits.

In 2026 Wadebridge and Padstow; Bodmin, Caradon, St Blazey, Fowey and Lostwithiel; St Agnes and Perranporth will follow.