Barnet Council Begins Survey for New 20mph Zones in High Barnet
The Barnet Council has initiated a much-anticipated survey on expanding 20mph speed limits across High Barnet, though at a reduced scale from the original proposal. This survey, backed by the Barnet Residents Association (BRA), aims to assess if lower speed limits could enhance safety and reduce accidents, particularly benefiting pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
Research from other parts of London reveals that reducing speed limits can lead to substantial improvements in road safety. Areas that have adopted 20mph zones report fewer accidents, with lower speeds giving drivers more reaction time to avoid unforeseen hazards. Pedestrian injuries and fatalities notably decrease with reduced speeds, while road conditions improve for both cyclists and those on foot.
The initiative has drawn mixed reactions from the community. Many residents support the move, seeing it as a positive step toward creating safer, more family-friendly streets. However, some express concerns about potential traffic congestion and longer travel times, particularly during peak hours. Proponents argue that prioritizing safety can lead to a more pleasant community environment, particularly around schools and residential areas. Byng and Wentworth were the second 20mph zone in the borough back in the early noughties successfully lobbied for by BRA.
Currently, speed surveys are being conducted on Salisbury Road and Stapylton Road, where the speed limit is 30mph. The council is responding to calls from residents and local councillors who have raised concerns about speeding. The surveys, which collect speed data around the clock will help determine if speeding is a recurring problem. Should data support the need, the council will initiate a public consultation to gather broader community feedback on reducing the limit.
In addition to speed limits, BRA has recommended further measures to improve safety at the junction of Stapylton Road and Salisbury Road. Here, parked cars and the road's curvature increase accident risks, especially during busy times.
While High Barnet already has several 20mph zones around schools, BRA has advocated for a more comprehensive traffic review to address the area's broader needs, arguing that piecemeal changes may be less effective in the long term.