A SPEED limit reduction is being proposed for two main roads in Dorset to enhance the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
Dorset Council is proposing a speed limit reduction from 40mph to 30mph along Wimborne Road and Stapehill Road in Ferndown amid the ongoing Transforming Cities Fund active travel programme.
The authority says its introduction of new walking and cycling paths in the area has been a key driver for the proposal, alongside longstanding residential concerns about road safety in Stapehill Road and requests from the community for a lower speed limit.
The proposed speed limit reduction in Wimborne Road runs from Canford Bottom Roundabout (Wimborne Road West) to the existing 30mph zone just before Batstone Way and from Trickett’s Cross Roundabout (Wimborne Road East) to the existing 30mph zone near Monkton Close.
Meanwhile, the proposed speed limit reduction in Stapehill Road is along the northern section of the road running from the junction with Wimborne Road West to just south of Pompeys Lane.
Ward councillor for Ferndown North Cathy Lugg said: “Reducing the speed limit along Wimborne Road and Stapehill Road has been a long-held ambition for both Cllr Mike Parkes and myself, and something the local community has been repeatedly asking for.
“The introduction of the new walking and cycling paths in the area and the expected increase in people walking and cycling means we are now able to propose this speed limit reduction not only along Wimborne Road but the northern end of Stapehill Road too.
“Lowering the speeds will make it safer for people walking and cycling and is part of Dorset Council’s commitment to providing safe active travel for our local community.”
The introduction of the proposed speed limit reduction is subject to the outcome of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) – a legal consultation process. The TRO is currently under review by Dorset Council and is due to be advertised later this summer when members of the public will be able to submit comments.
Earlier this year, work on the 2.3km stretch of new walking and cycle paths and crossings between Wimborne Road West and Leigh Road was completed to a mostly positive reception.
Further works in Wimborne Road between Canford Bottom and Trickett’s Cross roundabouts commenced in March and are expected to last until autumn.
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