From 17 September 2023, the default 20mph speed limit will come into force on roads where people live, work and play in Ceredigion, and across Wales.

The Welsh Government is changing the default speed limit to make streets safer by reducing the likelihood of collisions – and death or injury from them, although some roads will remain at 30mph and will be known as exceptions.

Ceredigion County Council has consulted with communities earlier this year on which roads will keep their current speed limit. The roads that will change to the default 20mph speed limit in Ceredigion can be seen on datamap.gov.wales/maps/roads-affected-by-changes-to-the-speed-limit-on-re/view#/ or www.ceredigion.gov.uk/public-it/traffic/Map%20Ymgynghori-Consultation%20Map.html

Ceredigion has already introduced 20mph speed limits in some areas like parts of Aberystwyth, Cardigan, New Quay and by many schools in the county due to the recognised health benefits.

A Welsh public health study estimated that the 20mph default speed limit could result in:

  • 40% fewer collisions
  • saving 6 to 10 lives every year
  • avoiding 1,200 to 2,000 people from being injured every year.

Deputy Minister for Climate Change, with responsibility for transport, Lee Waters said: “The evidence from around the world is very clear – reducing speed limits reduces collisions and saves lives. Slower speeds also help create a safer and more welcoming community, giving people the confidence to walk and cycle more, improving their health and wellbeing whilst protecting the environment.”

Councillor Keith Henson is the Cabinet Member responsible for Highways, Environmental Services and Carbon Management. He said: “The new 20mph speed limit will be a significant change to motorists. However, it’s important to remember that the change will impact positively on cyclists and pedestrians such as children, people with disabilities and older people.

“We face major challenges in securing our nation’s physical and mental well-being, now and that of future generations. Increasing levels of walking and cycling offers a very straightforward way of helping us achieve this. It offers a simple way of building physical activity into everyday lives and bringing associated health improvements. It reduces motorised traffic and with it air pollution, carbon emissions and congestion and it helps make people and communities feel more safe and connected and boost local businesses.”

You can find out more information about 20mph on the Welsh Government website: www.gov.wales/safer-20mph-lets-look-out-each-other

07/08/2023