Town centre set for 20mph speed limit

The proposal is one of a dozen selected across Surrey to be progressed for design and scoping in 2025

A Surrey town centre is set to have a 20mph speed limit.

The proposed restrictions in Dorking follow Surrey County Council’s (SCC) decision to introduce “appropriate” speed limits throughout the county earlier this year.

Attempts to make the default speed limit of 20mph in town centres and residential areas were rejected by county councillors in 2022.

A SCC spokesperson said: “Surrey County Council are planning a 20mph speed limit reduction to the northern section of Dorking Town Centre with proposed delivery from autumn 2025.”

Data in 2023 showed there were almost 30 deaths on Surrey’s roads each year, on average.

A new road safety strategy will work to bring that number down and also help create liveable and “healthy” streets, the council says.

A SCC spokesperson added: “This... aims to make the area that includes schools, and links to train and bus services, a more pleasant and environmentally friendly place.

“The 20mph speed limit reduction will require wide consultation with the community, local residents and stakeholders and has the aim of supporting more people to walk, scoot, cycle and being active.”

Funding has been allocated for the implementation of the lower speed limits which will be linked with any emerging programme from the Dorking Masterplan.