New 20mph proposal 'nothing to do with' money

Councillor Mark Coker said proposals were based on public feedback

Plymouth City Council has said proposals for new 20mph speed limits are "categorically" not about making money.

Residents in Plymouth are being asked to give their views on reducing the speed limit in areas of Stoke and Stonehouse.

The council said more than 5,000 residents had been sent letters "inviting feedback" on the plans, which includes a new pedestrian and cycle-crossing linking Stonehouse Creek and Victoria Park.

Councillor Mark Coker said the proposals were based on public feedback "about excessive speeds, accidents and near misses".

The proposed zone includes residential streets in Stoke and Stonehouse

He said: "The aim is to increase safety for all road users and pedestrians, including children attending the local schools, while making it easier for drivers by creating a clearly signed zone rather than having side roads with different speed limits to the one you are joining or leaving.

“You do hear some people claim that 20mph zones are just about councils wanting to raise income from enforcement fines, but I can say categorically that these proposals have absolutely nothing to do that."

Mr Coker added most of the target roads were "narrow and fairly congested" so it was "unsafe to go any faster anyway".

The proposed zone includes residential streets and the area covered by an existing 20mph zone at the High Street Academy and Millbay Primary Academy.

Mr Coker said he was "prepared to go back to the drawing board if necessary” based on all feedback received.

Further details on the proposed scheme are available at an information stand in Victoria Park until 16:00 BST on Saturday.

The deadline for comments is Friday 2 August.