20mph pilot scheme arrives in Cuxham
Speed reductions in three more test sites also approved
A south Oxfordshire village has become the first pilot site for a scheme to make 20mph the new 30mph across the county.
Oxfordshire County Council brought in 20mph restrictions to Cuxham this week, putting in new speed signs and road markings and cutting back vegetation to make them more visible.
Last month, the council’s Cabinet endorsed proposals to make it simpler, quicker and less cost prohibitive to lower speeds to 20mph on most urban areas and village streets in places where it is both suitable and supported by residents.
Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “We are delighted that this pilot site is now up and running in Cuxham, and we are keen to see what impact the measures will have on the area. There is considerable local support for the change, and we believe it will make this beautiful village even more attractive and safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
“We have received an overwhelming level of interest from towns, villages and parishes since we announced the expansion of these proposals last month, which shows just what an appetite there is for 20mph becoming the new 30mph in Oxfordshire.”
On Thursday 18 November, three more 20mph pilot schemes were approved – in Long Wittenham, Wallingford Central and Wallingford North. A fourth trial scheme, in Kirtlington, is also planned once a consultation has taken place.
The emphasis will be on changing motorists’ mindsets so that driving above 20mph in a built-up area is seen as socially unacceptable.
More information, including details about how towns, parishes and villages can register an interest in bringing in 20mph limits, are available on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.
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