New 20mph limits for five towns and villages

The changes are in response to requests from the parish and town councils

A 20mph speed limit is to be introduced in five towns and villages in Dorset.

Signage is being installed in parts of Child Okeford and Winterborne Kingston before the end of September.

The speed limit is also being cut in Cheselbourne, Okeford Fitzpaine and in Allenview Road and Burts Hill in Wimborne in October.

The changes have been made in response to requests from the parish and town councils for those areas.

Since 2022, local councils have been able to apply for 20mph schemes but they must be able to demonstrate significant community support.

Dorset Council's place services councillor, Jon Andrews, said: "This initiative is a direct response to residents' concerns about safety and wellbeing in their neighbourhoods.

"It aims to deliver the greatest benefit in areas where people live, walk, cycle or use mobility aids, helping to create healthier, safer streets for everyone."

In October, Dorset Council will be consulting on a new batch applications for 20mph schemes affecting Winterborne Whitechurch, Beaminster, Yetminster and Ryme Intrinseca, Sandy Lane and Victory Oak in St Leonard's, Gillingham, Briantspuddle, Upton, Pymore near Bridport, Lyme Regis and Milborne St Andrew.