Birmingham City Council has proposed new 20mph speed limits on seven roads near Chilcote School in Hall Green to enhance safety for children and residents. This proposal is part of the city’s wider Chilcote Safer Route to School initiative, aimed at tackling road safety concerns in the area.
The council recently launched a public consultation inviting residents to share their views on these measures. In addition to the slower speed limits, the plan includes installing bollards to prevent vehicles from mounting pavements and introducing double yellow lines to restrict parking, further protecting pedestrians.
According to a letter sent to local residents, the scheme is funded by the Local Improvement Budget – Transportation and Highways Fund, which supports minor transport improvements identified at the ward level. Once the consultation ends on January 9, the council will review feedback and potentially proceed with the changes under a Traffic Regulation Order, the legal mechanism required to enforce new road rules.
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This project fits within Birmingham’s broader transport strategy that aims to “meet the demands of the future by prioritising people over cars.” The council emphasizes the need for “fundamental changes” to the city’s transport network to address the climate emergency, promoting walking, cycling, and public transport as preferred travel modes over private cars.
City transport leader Councillor Majid Mahmood has endorsed extending 20mph zones on appropriate roads, highlighting that around one-third of Birmingham’s streets are already subject to these limits. The council believes slower speed zones reduce collisions and save lives without impacting other types of roads.
Support for 20mph limits also comes from Mat MacDonald, the UK’s first road safety commissioner. Appointed by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, MacDonald has cited evidence showing these zones significantly reduce accidents and serious injuries.
As Birmingham explores expanding 20mph speed limits, public input remains crucial to shaping safer neighborhoods and creating a more people-friendly city.