An Individual Executive Member Decision meeting of Wokingham Borough Council is scheduled to consider proposals for new 30mph speed limits on several roads across the borough. The meeting will also review the outcomes of a statutory consultation regarding these proposed changes.

Proposed 30mph Speed Limits in Arborfield, Finchampstead, and Ruscombe

The meeting is scheduled to consider the implementation of a 30mph speed limit on various roads in Arborfield, Finchampstead, and Ruscombe. This proposal, detailed in the Various Roads, Aborfield, Finchampstead and Ruscombe (30mph) Order report, aims to enhance road safety and reflect the changing environment in these areas.

The roads proposed for the new speed limit include:

• Biggs Lane, Arborfield: A section of approximately 50 metres from its junction with Commonfield Lane.
• Park Lane, Finchampstead: From a point approximately 25 metres north-east of its junction with Palmer Place, northwards to its junction with Commonfield Lane.
• Stanlake Lane, Ruscombe: From its junction with the B3024, southwards for approximately 50 metres.
• Waltham Road, Ruscombe: From its junction with New Road and Stanlake Lane, eastwards for approximately 65 metres.
• New Road, Ruscombe: From its junction with the B3024, northwards for approximately 30 metres.

The report indicates that the proposed changes are supported by the council's Speed Limit policy, which considers the character and function of the road, its layout, and collision history. The policy supports 30mph limits in built-up or partially built-up areas where vulnerable road users are likely to be present.

A statutory consultation on the proposed order received 117 responses, with 83 in favour and 34 objecting. Objections raised concerns about the evidence supporting the changes, the impact on journey times and congestion, and the need for enforcement. However, officers have concluded that these objections do not outweigh the reasons for introducing the speed limits. Twyford Parish Council welcomed the proposed limits at the Stanlake Lane, Waltham Road, and New Road crossroads but suggested extending the limits further. Thames Valley Police confirmed they did not object to the proposals for Biggs Lane and Park Lane.

The report also includes an Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) which concluded that the proposal has a low impact and no material impact on individuals or groups with protected characteristics. The EqIA noted that no specific feedback regarding adverse impacts on these groups was received during the consultation.

The decision on whether to proceed with making the order rests with Councillor Adrian Betteridge, Executive Councillor for Active Travel, Transport and Highways. The report recommends that he considers the objections and representations received, accepts the officer recommendations, and agrees to proceed with the making and implementation of the order.