The Welsh Government has proposed to introduce a 20mph speed limit on restricted roads across the country.

Restricted roads are mainly in residential and built-up areas where there are lots of pedestrians and include roads where street lights are placed no more than 200 yards apart.

The government said reducing the speed from 30 to 20 mph could see a number of benefits, including: reducing road collisions, providing more opportunities to walk and cycle, improve health and wellbeing as well as making streets safer.

If passed, Wales will be the first country in the UK to introduce the change which will play an instrumental role in helping to save lives, protect our communities and improve quality of life for everyone, reports Wales 247

The first phase of this change is being rolled out in eight communities across Wales this year in order to gather data and develop a best practice approach before the proposed full rollout in 2023. As part of this approach the Welsh Government has recently launched a consultation for people to have their say on the change before the necessary legislation is laid. The consultation runs for 12 weeks and will come to an end on 30 September.

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure commented, “Caerphilly Council is committed to making our streets safer, cleaner and healthier for all residents, which is why we are pleased that Welsh Government have shared their plans to introduce a 20mph limit on restricted roads across Wales. I would like to encourage all residents to have their say in this consultation and play their part in improving the road network throughout the borough.”