Purpose

Consideration and decision required whether or
not to make the Traffic Regulation Order to install 20mph speed
limits across various streets in Harrogate in light of the
objections received.

Decision

The order for a 20mph speed limit, as set out
in Appendix A of the report, is approved.

Reasons for the decision

The proposed 20mph speed limit aligns with
several of the Council’s priorities linked with Highway
Safety, Place and Environment and Health and Well Being. By
introducing a reduced speed limit from 30mph to 20mph in these
areas it is hoped that a safer and healthier environment will
encourage enhanced active travel opportunities for all ages of the
community, this may be walking, wheeling, accessibility to the bus
or cycling. The benefits of promoting safer and healthier streets
by the implementation of 20mph speed limits in this area, which has
a high proportion of schools, outweighs the negatives and achieves
the objectives of road safety and healthier travel in the current
Local Transport Plan. The decision also complies with Section 122
of Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

Alternative options considered

The alternative to implementing the proposed
20mph speed limit would be to keep the current speed limits on
these streets which is 30mph. This is the standard speed limit for
built up/residential areas across the country. Any change to speed
limit however cannot be done without a Traffic Regulation
Order.