Campaigners call for safer roads in Derbyshire with 20mph speed limits

A new campaign, called 20’s Plenty for Derbyshire, is calling on Derbyshire County Council to introduce 20mph in residential areas across towns and villages county-wide.

The campaign comes as more people are choosing to walk and cycle during the pandemic, with residents concerned about making the roads safer.

Philip Taylor, from 20’s Plenty for Bamford, said: “As a wheelchair user I feel very vulnerable at times.

"Due poor or non-existent pavements, as well as parked cars and pavement furniture, I’m often forced onto the road and the speed of traffic in our village, even at 30mph, feels threatening.

"I am very aware that if a car hit me at even one travelling at 30mph my chances of surviving would be limited.”

Campaigner Charlotte Farell has slammed Derbyshire’s current policy as ‘flawed’ and ‘wildly out of date’ and called for action to be taken.

She said: “Around 21million people live in places committed to 20mph in other areas of the UK.

"Signs are installed with only limited road engineering, and casualties are falling 20 per cent because of it.

"Derbyshire’s policy is wildly out of date.

"By making the roads safer we can reclaim our towns and villages from the danger of motor vehicles and more people will walk and cycle. The 20mph limit is healther, safer and cleaner. And it almost halves noise pollution.”

Pippa McCartney, from 20’s Plenty Whaley Bridge, also thinks safety should come first.

She said: “I support the campaign so that everyone, young and old can feel safe.

"We need to return to the days of not so long ago when we could safely walk, jog, play, cycle, exercise dogs, horse ride and chat with neighbours and friends where we live.

"Human health and safety comes first, traffic must take second place. It’s a no-brainer.”

Anyone interested in joining 20s Plenty for Derbyshire is invited to email [email protected].