A 20mph speed limit across Wales could save £100m in the first year due to a reduction in deaths and injuries, new research has found.
The research, conducted by the Transport Research Institute (TRI) in conjunction with Public Health Wales, shows a new default 20mph speed limit on residential roads would save more than 100 lives and prevent 14,000 casualties over a decade.
The Welsh Government is introducing a 20mph speed limit on restricted roads across Wales in September 2023.
Deputy minister for climate change, Lee Waters, said: 'This new research shows the savings in terms of reductions in people being hurt or killed but the benefits of 20mph stretch much further than casualty savings alone. The report suggests the lower speed limit will help encourage physical activity and in turn reduce obesity, stress and anxiety.
'As with any change we know it will take time for people to adapt. But I’m pleased to see the early indications show a majority of people are in favour of 20mph, and I am confident that if we all work together, we can make the necessary changes that will benefit us now and in the future.'
A sperate survey found two-thirds of people surveyed said they would support a 20mph speed limit where they lived.
