Safer streets on our estates

Bury Council’s new strategy for improving road safety in residential streets and estates will be launched at the next round of township forum meetings. 

The StreetSafe strategy includes proposals that will make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport instead of their cars. Its main aim is to make Bury’s neighbourhoods better places to live, to encourage communities to get out and about more and to help people lead healthier lives. 

In order to increase drivers’ awareness of the dangers and anti-social aspects of speeding in residential areas, 20mph speed limits will be a major component of StreetSafe. 

All proposals for introducing 20mph speed limits will be advertised in the local press and residents will be given the opportunity to take part in consultations on schemes being promoted in their area. 

Streets where schools are present will be the first to get the 20mph limits as well as streets with recognised problems caused by through traffic. Some 19 schools in the borough are already located within an existing 20mph zone or in a street with a 20mph limit. Via StreetSafe, this number is expected to increase to 58. 

Councillor Gill Campbell, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and regeneration, said: “Evidence shows that at 30mph there is a 1 in 5 (20%) chance of a child being killed if involved in a collision. At 20mph this risk is reduced to 1 in 40, a 2.5% chance of being killed. 

“These figures speak for themselves but we need to drive this message home to motorists and change the culture across the borough. Everyone needs to recognise that speeding in residential areas is both dangerous and anti-social. With residents’ support, StreetSafe will reduce vehicle speeds and the number and severity of accidents in the borough.”

Dr Peter Elton, Director of Public Health, added: “I am delighted to see StreetSafe being introduced throughout the borough. The health of our children has improved so much that it heightens the tragedy when a child is killed by a car travelling too fast. In residential areas, driving above 20mph is too fast. StreetSafe will help reduce the possibility of parents and families losing a child. It will make a big difference.” 

A list of 20mph schemes under consideration will be available to view at www.bury.gov.uk/streetsafe from Wednesday 27 February. 

Bury StreetSafe strategy will be launched at the following township forum meetings: Radcliffe (on 27 February); Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor (7 March); Whitefield and Unsworth (12 March); Prestwich (13 March); Bury West (14 March); and Bury East (20 March).  For more details, visit www.bury.gov.uk/townshipfurms.

ENDS

Press release issued: 19 February 2013.

Picture attached: Councillor Gill Campbell, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and regeneration, with Les Watts, principal engineer, at an existing 20mph zone in Polefield.