London borough launches 20mph speed limits across roads although ‘vital measure’ could hinder drivers

Drivers have been warned of borough-wide 20mph speed limits now in place across roads in London marking a fresh blow for motorists.

Newham Council gave the green light to new 20mph streets across the borough in a bid to improve road safety for local residents.

The initiative aims to reduce traffic collisions, with evidence showing that a 1mph decrease in average speed can reduce crashes by up to six per cent.

The programme forms part of a broader strategy to create a cleaner and healthier borough, with lower speed limits aiming to reduce noise and pollution from car traffic.

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The need for lower speeds comes as the council recorded 5,200 road collision casualties, including 16 fatalities and 598 serious injuries between 2017 and 2022.

Data also revealed that the majority of these serious and fatal injuries occurred on roads with a 30mph speed limit, prompting discussions around more safety measures.

To combat this, the council introduced lower speed limits to cut the number of incidents and the severity of injuries.

Rokhsana Fiaz, Mayor of Newham, said: “This marks a significant achievement for Newham as we complete the rollout of 20mph speed limits across the borough. This vital measure will improve road safety, reduce collisions and save lives.

“By reducing road danger, we’re helping to protect vulnerable communities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can travel safely.”

The initiative will also help the council meet its commitment to Vision Zero, which aims to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on roads by 2041.

However, while the 20mph changes impact most roads, the council did note that several major roads will retain their current speed limits and be excluded from the 20mph enforcement.

These include Newham Way (A13), Royal Docks Road (A1020), and the Lower Lea Crossing (A1020). Woolwich Manor Way between Gallions Roundabout and Woodman Street will also maintain its current speed limit. Sir Steve Redgrave Bridge and Albert Road (A117) are similarly exempt from the new speed restrictions

Private streets in developments or estates, and streets not managed by the council are also excluded. But all other streets in the borough will become 20mph zones, the council stated.

Mandy Young, Deputy Head Teacher of Rebecca Cheetham Nursery School and Children’s Centre, said she was “delighted” that Newham Council is lowering traffic speeds across the borough.

She added: “We encourage our children to walk, cycle and scoot to school, and reduced traffic speeds make it easier and safer for children across Newham to get to school in healthy and sustainable ways.”

The new speed limits align with measures already in place across neighbouring boroughs, including Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest.

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Councillor Sarah Ruiz shared: “By reducing speed, we can significantly lower the risk of serious injuries and fatalities while promoting healthier lifestyles through walking and cycling. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving road safety and addressing health inequalities.”