New 20mph zones are coming into effect across West Kirby.
Road markings and signage are being installed in the town – which is one of 15 zones in the borough targeted by the measure in phase one of the scheme.
In total, it will cost £350,000 to implement – with the funding coming from the government via Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, rather than the council.
Initially, signs and road markings are being introduced, with some roads considered for physical traffic calming measures once the impact is measured.
Just 94 people responded to a consultation about the West Kirby proposal last year, with 62 per cent against the idea. Their main reasons for objecting included fears it would increase journey time and increase congestion. Those in favour believed it would make the roads safer and change driver behaviour.
When the consultation was launched last October, Cllr Liz Grey, Chair of the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee, said: “Introducing more 20mph zones in predominantly residential, retail, or educational areas is one of the priorities identified by Wirral’s Road Safety Working Group.
“They help to create safe and healthy street environments, which work well for all people and help them live active, healthy lives in areas of good air quality.”
A report considered by the committee when the plan was approved in January said: “Whilst the concerns raised by consultation respondents are noted and have been considered, the proposed 20mph speed limits will focus on creating safe and healthy street environments, which work well for all people and help them live active, healthy lives in areas of good air quality.
“It is anticipated that bringing in more 20mph speed limits on roads in the borough will help perception of improved road safety for all road users. 20 mph speed limits also reduce greenhouse gas emissions contributing to the Council’s net zero objectives as part of its Climate Emergency declaration and can help make residential streets more pleasant and attractive places to live.”
It added: “The objective of the scheme is not just about introducing 20mph speed limits, it is also intended to provide better access to cycling and walking and creating quiet neighbourhoods with lower traffic levels.
“Local authorities may have historically planned transport schemes with vehicle use as a main consideration and this may have encouraged people to use cars. However, transport planning emphasis and government policy has now shifted towards making road networks more attractive for walking and cycling and safer for all road users.”
Merseyside Police are responsible for enforcing speed limits, with any fines going to central government and helping fund speed awareness courses.
The other wards included in phase one are: New Brighton, Liscard, Wallasey, Bromborough, Clatterbridge, Bebington, Birkenhead, Tranmere, Prenton, Bidston, Eastham, Clatterbridge, Oxton, Claughton, Rock Ferry, Leasowe, Moreton, Heswall, Claughton and Seacombe.
More information about the scheme can be found at https://www.wirral.gov.uk/20mph.
