Sheffield Council approves 20mph zones in High Green and Fulwood

Reduced speed limits will be introduced in Fulwood and High Green

New 20mph zones are to be introduced in two Sheffield neighbourhoods following a public consultation.

Sheffield Council's transport, regeneration and climate committee approved the changes for streets in Fulwood and High Green at a meeting on Wednesday.

The local authority received almost 500 responses to the consultation.

A report by the council said the changes should improve road safety and encourage "sustainable" travel.

There were 409 responses to the council's consultation for Fulwood, with 252 in support and 157 objections.

A consultation report said the majority of objectors criticised the "blanket" approach of the speed restrictions and said they should be concentrated around school areas.

The six-figure cost of the scheme was also criticised by respondents in both neighbourhoods.

In High Green, there were 61 responses to the consultation, with 36 in support of the plans and 25 against.

"Many respondents said that speeding is an issue in the area and there are roads that are often used as a racetrack," said a consultation report.

A report recommended approval in both neighbourhoods because "the benefits of the scheme in terms of safety and sustainability are considered to outweigh the concerns raised".

It added: "Reducing the speed of traffic in residential areas should, in the long term, reduce the number and severity of collisions, reduce the fear of accidents, encourage sustainable modes of travel and contribute towards the creation of a more pleasant, cohesive environment."

In a letter dated November 2023, the council said its plans to introduce the new speed limit "in early 2024".