MP backs Oswestry Town Council's bid to extend 20mph speed zones

In October, the town council backed a motion criticising current limits as “inconsistent” and calling for them to be extended to where people are living and shopping.

Parts of the town centre became 20mph zones in late 2021, as part of changes to the one-way system aimed at making it safer for pedestrians.

The current restrictions apply to Church Street, Cross Street, and part of Willow Street.

“I wholeheartedly agree with the comments made by the town council surrounding safer roads for all, particularly children and other vulnerable road users,” said Ms Morgan.

“As a result, I would of course be very happy to offer my support to Oswestry’s campaign for a 20mph covering the wider town council area wherever residents are living and shopping.

“My position on road safety is to always listen to the communities impacted and support their efforts to create better towns and villages to live in, and in this instance, there is clear local demand and political support from councillors for the improvements needed.”

Last year, the previous Conservative government put the brakes on the introduction of some 20mph zones as part of its stated plan to tackle what it said was “over-zealous traffic enforcement”, which sought to capitalise on perceived opposition to traffic calming measures such as Low Traffic Neighbourhood schemes.

However, the change of government means that policy guidance may no longer be in effect, with Labour Transport Secretary Louise Haigh launching a new road safety strategy which it says will aim to “reduce tragic deaths and injuries on our roads”.

Oswestry Town Council has been asked to note Ms Morgan’s letter at its meeting this Wednesday (December 11).