An Individual Executive Member Decision meeting of Wokingham Borough Council is scheduled for 12th November 2026 to consider a proposal to permanently reduce the speed limit on several residential roads. The meeting agenda also includes the formal confirmation of previous minutes.

Eastheath Avenue and Adjoining Roads (20mph) Order

The primary item scheduled for discussion is the proposed permanent introduction of a 20mph speed limit on Eastheath Avenue and its adjoining roads: Reeves Way, Heath Close, Eastheath Gardens, Thorpe Close, and Crail Close, all located in Wokingham. This proposal aims to replace the current 30mph limit.

The report pack indicates that the proposal stems from a temporary 20mph limit that was in place during construction phases of the South Wokingham Distributor Road. Following the completion of these works, the council is considering making the lower speed limit permanent. The report highlights that these roads serve a residential area with significant pedestrian and cycling activity, including routes to Evendons Primary School and Leslie Sears & Viking Field playing fields. A reduced speed limit is intended to create a safer environment for vulnerable road users and encourage active travel, aligning with the council's Speed Limit Policy and Local Transport Plan.

A statutory consultation was conducted, receiving 35 responses, with 25 in favour and 10 objecting. Objections raised concerns about the necessity of the reduction, the suitability of the roads for the existing limit, and potential increases in journey times and driver frustration. Thames Valley Police also objected, questioning the likelihood of compliance with a sign-only scheme and stating no additional enforcement resources would be available.

Despite these objections, the report suggests that the feedback demonstrates a clear perception among residents that vehicle speeds are impacting the character of the area and the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. The council's approach to 20mph speed limits acknowledges that the case for lower limits should not be based solely on casualty reduction. The report concludes that the proposed limit is appropriate and consistent with the council's objectives to protect vulnerable road users and promote active transport.

The decision is to be made by Councillor Adrian Betteridge, Executive Councillor for Active Travel, Transport and Highways. The report pack includes an Equality Impact Assessment which concluded that the proposal has a 'low' impact and does not require a full assessment, as no specific feedback regarding adverse impacts on individuals or groups with protected characteristics was received during the consultation. The financial implications are estimated at £1000 in the current financial year, to be funded from revenue.

The meeting is scheduled to consider the objections and representations received, accept officer recommendations, and approve the making and implementation of the Traffic Regulation Order.

The documents related to this meeting include the Agenda frontsheet and the Public reports pack.