ROADS across Southend are set to become 20mph zones peppered with speed bumps to tackle speeding and boost safety.

The controversial pilot schemes for parts of Leigh and the Burges Estate in Thorpe Bay, will be debated by Southend Council’s cabinet next week.

As well as speed bumps, 20mph speed limit signs will be installed along with “20 is plenty” road markings and banners.

James Duddridge, Conservative MP for Rochford and Southend East, blasted the move and branded the plan “bonkers”.

He said: “It will be a bumpy ride ahead for the Southend’s Labour-led coalition of chaos if they go ahead with this ridiculous plan to put speed humps everywhere.

“All the evidence is pointing away from speed bumps – it’s an idea that originated in the 80s. It is completely bonkers, it will destroy the aesthetics of the area, cost loads of taxpayers’ money, upset residents and it won’t achieve what it has set out to do!

“I know their councillors claim to be ‘independent’, but this is clearly independent of common sense.”

The council says the “safer, greener” roads will help to keep residents safe, tackle speeding and reduce vehicle emissions.

Independent Ron Woodley, councillor responsible for transport, asset management and inward investment, said: “The introduction of 20mph neighbourhoods can have a tremendous impact on road safety, which is why I am pleased to see this being brought forward.

“Reducing speed will greatly increase safety for local residents and drivers, and can also reduce vehicle emissions, so it’s a win-win for the borough. We will carry out air quality monitoring prior to the implementation, and after, to assess air quality. I look forward to discussing this further with my cabinet colleagues.”

Studies in London suggest that 20mph speed limits see cars accelerate and decelerate less, producing lower emissions. Residential streets with 20mph limits can also encourage active forms of travel.

The trial areas will cost £500,000, funded using capital grant funding from the Department for Transport.

If successful they could be rolled out across the borough, particularly in roads where there are schools.

Councillors will discuss the proposals at the next cabinet meeting on Thursday.

 

speed reduction - Thorpe Bay Gardens

speed reduction - Thorpe Bay Gardens

Pilot scheme - Thorpe Hall Avenue

Pilot scheme - Thorpe Hall Avenue