Speed limits

40/50 mph

These limits only apply on a number of main access roads into the city. Drivers should note that 40/50 speed limits are always signed with the appropriate speed limit; otherwise within an a area with a system of street lighting, a 30 mph limit applies.

30 mph

As an urban area with a system of street lighting, with few exceptions, a 30 mph speed limit applies within the city. In accordance with Department for Transport regulations the 30 mph speed limits will only be signed where there is a change from another speed limit or where there is a speed camera.

20 mph

A number of new housing developments are being built with roads that are designed to limit vehicle speeds and may therefore (with due public consultation) open with a speed limit of 20 mph, which will be signed at the point of entry and exit.

As the Department for Transport advises that 85% of vehicle speeds should be below 24 mph before a 20 mph limit can be applied, this can only achieved on most of our existing roads by traffic calming measures e.g. speed bumps.

The Council prioritises its investment on reducing vehicle speeds in a long term programme in the vicinity of schools, where this is possible. In all such cases a public consultation is required.

Vehicles Speeding

Where drivers are exceeding the speed limit they are risking their own safety and that of other road users. The Police have the power to charge drivers for the offence of speeding under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. Residents may therefore wish to register concerns by contacting the Police on their non emergency number 0845 045 45 45 or request measurements of traffic speeds.

Any new speed limit, or any amendments to existing speed limits, requires a Speed limit order to be made. This involves a process of consultation and public advertisement which can take several months.

more information on speed limits and safe stopping distances

To report a damaged/missing speed limit sign please report it