The Welsh Government has published guidance on reverting speed limits in built-up areas to 30mph, less than a year after introducing a default 20mph limit.

Transport secretary Ken Skates agreed earlier this year to ‘correct’ the guidance following backlash over the default 20mph limit, which was brought in last September.

Highways authorities will have to submit bids for funding to change limits from a pot of £5m.

The guidance says a 30mph limit could be set on roads outside city, town or village centres where pedestrians and cyclists do not frequently mix with motor vehicles.

It advises authorities to weigh up the benefits – such as reduced travel times and increased efficiency – against issues like increased casualties, more severe injuries, and noise.

Welsh Local Government Association leader Andrew Morgan said: ‘These are not easy decisions for councils and safety remains our priority.

‘There will need to be a high level of confidence that, if and where the limit is raised back to 30mph, it will not result in the very risks the policy was designed to mitigate.’

The director of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, Aaron Hill, said: ‘Ultimately, this new guidance will result in a small number of speed limit changes, and only go some of the way towards addressing the concerns of bus passengers, who want faster - not slower – journeys.

‘If they are to see better and more reliable services, it is vital for every local authority to ensure buses are given greater priority on our roads.’