Cycling Rebellion march to Bournemouth civic centre

Cycling Rebellion delivered their 20 hearts to BCP Council to call for an ‘all at once rollout’ of the limits across the conurbation on Sunday, April 14.

The group marched along Old Christchurch Road to the civic centre, closing off a section of the road to make it for ‘people first’.

Protestors played games and danced in the road, while children drew in chalk on the road.

The group said that 20mph can be rolled out instantly and affordably, making it safer for people to walk and cycle, as the world faces an environmental emergency.

It said: “Where people live, work and play, 20 is plenty.”

Founder of Cycling Rebellion, Adam Osman, said: “A crash is four times more likely to be fatal at 30 than 20, and it goes a long way to prevent accidents and make it safe for children to cross the street and cycle.

“Cllr Dove and Broadhead would try to cast doubt, while pro-20 councillors are only proposing a piece-by-piece rollout.

“Everyone who is reasonable knows the science is solid, default 20mph limits make our towns nicer places to be.”

Dozens of 20 hearts were laid out at the civic centre calling for action from the council, with members of the public asked to say why they support the speed limit.

The group’s message to the council says: “BCP council, take decisive action to secure our children's future, a slow rollout will not secure that.

“It only serves to confuse and delay progress.

“We need you to be brave and bold to secure a liveable future in light of climate change. Open your hearts, Love 20.”

Members of the public said they supported the speed limit as it would make the area safer for children, older people and for cycling, encouraging active travel which would help to keep people fit.

Liz, from Winton, said: “I think 20 is plenty in most of the streets in Because we don't need to be in a rush. We're in a climate emergency, so we need to be looking at different ways of transport.

“At the moment I don't feel safe cycling in Bournemouth.”