A 20mph speed limit could soon be introduced across much of Edinburgh, as council plans are put out to public consultation.
Measures proposed by the local authority would see a 20mph limit rolled out across the city centre, main shopping streets and residential routes.
Edinburgh City Council has long pledged to gauge public opinion on the measure, having previously run a ‘successful’ pilot in the south of the district.
According to the town hall, the change would encourage more considerate driving, improve safety for all road users and help children and elderly people to travel independently and safely.
The Edinburgh People’s Survey in 2012 found 67% of residents in favour of a 20mph limit for all city centre streets, with only 5% opposed to the idea.
Speed humps will not be introduced to any of the main streets, while the new limit is expected to have a ‘very limited’ impact on bus journey times.
Cllr Lesley Hinds, transport convener, said the council would reduce speeds by mainly concentrating on signage but measures including pedestrian islands ‘may be required on some residential streets where speeds don’t fall sufficiently with a signs and paint only approach’.
‘This consultation is a very important step in our journey towards a culture change in the capital regarding speed limits and we want to make sure as many people as possible have had the chance to comment on the proposals,’ Cllr Hinds added.
Cllr Adam McVey, vice transport convener, said: ‘Lower speeds in residential areas and shopping streets are not just good for safety and environmental reasons. Slower traffic makes streets more attractive to residents, pedestrians, cyclists and children, improves the environment for business and enhances quality of life.’
The consultation closes on 17 October