More 20mph limits in pipeline for Midlands towns

Council chiefs in Birmingham are preparing to pilot a scheme that will eventually cover around 90 per cent of the city's roads.

In the Black Country, one of the largest schemes will soon see the introduction of a 20mph speed limit to much of West Bromwich Town Centre.

Speed restrictions will be introduced to High Street, Carters Green, Dudley Street, West Bromwich Ringway, on roads around the New Square complex and on some of the roads in the Lyng estate.

Councillor Maria Crompton, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for highways and environment, said: "Road safety is a priority and we have 20mph speed limits and zones in place across the borough. As part of this drive, we are about to introduce a 20mph zone in West Bromwich town centre.

"Not only will this protect road users and pedestrians, but also add to the big improvements already made to the area and encourage shoppers and other forms of transport."

Sandwell Council have also confirmed that they are looking into other schemes across the borough in the coming years and are already in talks to reduce speeds in accident blackspots.

In Wolverhampton, 20mph zones have been introduced in more than 20 places to lower vehicle speeds and reduce road casualties.

Walsall Council has also committed £25,000 to assess their own 20 is Plenty scheme that will see similar speed restrictions trialled across Walsall borough within the next few months. Walsall Council already has 20mph limits in place on 550 roads. Dudley Council has already introduced 20mph speed limits outside 11 schools in the borough following proposals drawn up by council bosses.

In Staffordshire, Councillor Simon Tagg, cabinet support member for transport and connected county said: "Rather than imposing a blanket 20mph speed limit across all residential areas, we will consider each individual community's needs."