A heated debate continues in Birmingham as a petition demanding the return of 40mph speed limits on the city’s expressways gains momentum with over 1,250 signatures. The campaigners argue that reducing limits to 30mph is causing unnecessary congestion and longer travel times on major routes originally designed for higher speeds.
Opponents of the 30mph limits claim the slower speeds are hampering traffic flow and believe a reversal would ease frustrations for daily commuters. The petition, started by local driver Kay H., voices concerns about cumulative burdens, including Clean Air Zone charges, increased parking fees, and ongoing roadworks.
However, road safety professionals stress the importance of the reduced speed limits to prevent fatalities and serious injuries. West Midlands Road Safety Commissioner Mat MacDonald acknowledges that driving in Birmingham can be challenging but insists the evidence clearly supports slower speeds to protect vulnerable road users.
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MacDonald highlighted a critical question drivers must consider: “If you had to choose between someone you love being struck at 40mph or 30mph, which would it be?” He emphasized that while collisions are sometimes unavoidable, lowering speed limits drastically improves survival rates in accidents.
Birmingham City Council confirms that the revised speed limits form part of an evidence-based strategy aimed at reducing collisions and serious injuries. Council transport leader Cllr Majid Mahmood reiterated the commitment to improving road safety through the Road Harm Reduction plan.
Residents have expressed diverse views on the issue. Some, like Basil from Wednesbury, criticize the council’s priorities, pointing to potholes needing repair and questioning the logic of enforcing 30mph where 40mph signs remain visible. Others, such as Wandra Harris, support the lower limits, especially around schools, citing the importance of safety over speed.
The council spokesperson underlined that dangerous and anti-social driving is increasing in the city, and maintaining slower speeds can reduce both the risk and severity of collisions. Importantly, they noted that driving 10mph slower in free-flowing traffic typically adds just 10 to 30 seconds per mile— a small price to pay for enhanced safety.
As the debate continues, Birmingham faces the challenge of balancing efficient traffic movement with protecting lives on its busy urban roads.