Slower is Safer - Speed Limits outside Wheelers Lane Primary School

In February 2017 we carried out a public consultation on proposals for variable 20mph speed limits outside schools. This would include signs to advise drivers to reduce their speed to 20mph at times when lots of children are expected to be walking near the school, such as at the start and end of the school day. At all other times, the current speed limit of the road (usually 30mph, in some cases 40mph) would apply.

We would like to thank everyone who responded to the consultation.   As a result of comments received, we have reviewed the project and its objectives and it has been decided not to proceed at the majority of schools we consulted. The scheme will however be taken forward at Wheelers Lane Primary School.

In the case of the majority of schools we consulted with, installing variable 20mph limits in isolation (i.e. not as part of a wider road safety scheme or in the context of area wide 20mph limits on surrounding roads) would not contribute to the objectives of the Birmingham Cycle Revolution programme which was going to be used to fund the scheme. Wheelers Lane Primary however, is on the edge of an existing 20mph speed limit area, so it was felt that the scheme would be beneficial at this location.

The introduction of 20mph speed limits is just one element of a package of measures to reduce vehicle speeds.  Reducing the speed limit should not be seen as an end in itself, but as part of a continuous process to encourage a change in driver behaviour and attitude with the aim of establishing 20mph as the default appropriate maximum speed in residential areas. Both the children and staff at Wheelers Lane Primary School have already given invaluable support with the roll out of the 20mph Slower is Safer campaign. Year 5 children were the stars of our ‘Talking Heads’ video which is still used as part of roadside education package and receives brilliant feedback. Your ongoing support will be essential if drivers are going to stick to the 20 limit outside Wheelers Lane and surrounding streets.

If you have not already done so we would strongly encourage your school to sign to Mode Shift STARS to develop an action plan that forms part your school’s travel plan which can lead to a nationally recognised accreditation.   This allows access to a range of activities that can help your school promote sustainable travel to school, including resources and grant funding opportunities your school can access.  There are already over 100 Birmingham schools that have signed up, and a further 20 schools who have received their Modeshift STARS Bronze accreditation. The work that you have already done in supporting the roll out of 20mph speed limits will be recognised in your action plan and will go a long way towards your bronze accreditation. We look forward to working with you further on this. For more information please contact connected@birmingham.gov.uk.

In order to review the Safer Routes to School measures and progress with the variable 20mph speed limit at Wheelers Lane Primary School, we will be contacting the school shortly to arrange a meeting. Please note that it is unlikely that any physical works will take place until early 2018.