TfL hopes reduced speeds will eliminate road deaths and encourage active travel

Transport for London (TfL) has opened consultation on its plans to introduce 20mph speed limits on an additional 17 miles of the capital’s roads.

TfL says the plan aligns with the London Mayor’s Vision Zero goal to eliminate death and serious injury from London’s transport network and to make the network safer for all users. Lower speeds, says TfL, will also encourage Londoners to travel in more active and sustainable ways.

TfL says the limit will apply to nearly all roads in Camden, Islington, Hackney, Haringey and Tower Hamlets, covering both the TfL and boroughs’ networks.

With introduction potentially as soon as next February, the new speed limits would be supported by new signs, road markings and enforcement cameras. Following implementation TfL will monitor the scheme to measure its impact.

Penny Rees, head of healthy streets investment at TfL, said, “We are determined to eliminate deaths and serious injuries from London’s roads in line with our Vision Zero goal.

“Ensuring the safety of Londoners and visitors is paramount and the introduction of 20mph speed limits would save lives and make London’s streets safer for people walking and cycling,” which Rees describes as a “top priority”.

In March 2020, TfL, in support of the Vision Zero commitment, brought in 20mph speed limits on all roads under its jurisdiction within the central London Congestion Charging zone. It says 49 miles of roads already operate with a 20mph limit.