20 mph speed limit for Lambeth residential streets

Lambeth’s road casualty figures are some of the highest in the UK. Of all the 32 boroughs in London only Westminster and Barnet have more casualties on the roads. Lambeth has the second highest casualty rate in London for both pedestrians and cyclists. (See: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/Cycling/casualties-in-greater-london-2010.pdf ) A third of the worst spots for collisions involving cyclists in London, are found in Lambeth ( http://lambethgreennews.blogspot.com/2011/10/lambeth-and-southwark-account-for-half.html )

A study conducted at monitoring sites across the capital in 2009 showed roads in Lambeth were among those to exceed recommended levels of nitrogen dioxide, a toxic gas that can cause health problems. Brixton Road, Christchurch Road in Tulse Hill, the Bondway Interchange in Vauxhall and Streatham High Road all had levels above the recommended limits.

20 mph speed limits have been proven by several studies to significantly reduce road accidents. They also encourage cycling and walking, reduce carbon emissions by helping the flow of traffic and improve air quality. Slower speeds also promote social inclusion and access to transport, particularly for those with mobility, vision and hearing impairments.

Already 7m residents in the UK live in towns which are adopting or have adopted this policy. It is time that Lambeth did too. (For more information see here: http://www.20splentyforus.org.uk/ )