The Green Party has unveiled a controversial proposal to lower the motorway speed limit to 55mph across England, aiming to improve road safety and fuel efficiency. This initiative is part of a broader transport strategy that has boosted the party’s popularity, with some polls showing the Greens neck-and-neck with Reform UK following a turbulent period for the Labour government.
Under the leadership of Zack Polanski, the Green Party plans to reduce speed limits on motorways and dual carriageways by 15mph. The party also advocates for implementing Welsh-style 20mph limits in all built-up areas to enhance safety.
Central to their approach is a policy of “travel demand management” designed to decrease both the speed and volume of motorized traffic. The official transport policy states: “On major roads outside of built-up areas, the maximum speed limit allowed would be 55mph, to maximise the efficiency of fuel use as well as improving safety.”
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In addition to speed reductions, the Greens intend to incrementally increase road fuel taxes to encourage drivers to be more mileage-conscious and to choose smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles. They also propose making driving tests more comprehensive and compulsory at regular intervals, such as every five years, to ensure driver competence.
Furthermore, the party plans to amend planning regulations to gradually reduce car parking availability, steering people towards more sustainable transportation options.
Former Green Party leader Baroness Natalie Bennett emphasized the party’s commitment to public transport, stating: “Green Party transport policy is focused on making public transport reliable, available, affordable and high quality. Evidence shows that many people would choose public transport if it were more convenient and better value.”
She added: “Alongside this, Greens support evidence-based measures to reduce road traffic accidents and improve fuel efficiency, helping to cut costs for motorists.”