West Sussex County Council has issued a notice proposing permanent speed limit changes on the A29 and adjacent roads around Coldwaltham, after a community highway application from Coldwaltham Parish Council sought lower limits to tackle collisions and improve safety.
What changes are proposed
The order would introduce a mix of speed limits along the route between Bury Gate and Pulborough, with limits set at 20mph, 30mph and 40mph depending on the section. In summary:
- 20mph on the length of the A29 through Coldwaltham village and on roads within the village;
- 30mph between Bury Gate and Watersfield;
- 40mph on the A29 between Coldwaltham and Pulborough.
ColdWaltham lies either side of the A29, about two miles south-west of Pulborough, and residents have long raised concerns about traffic speeds through the village.
How the limits would be signed and supported
The council says the 40mph section, which lies within the South Downs National Park, would be marked by standard terminal signs with roundels at entry points and repeater signs along the route. The village 20mph zone would be backed by two Vehicle Activated Signs to reinforce the lower limit.
| Section | Proposed limit |
|---|---|
| A29 through Coldwaltham village | 20mph |
| Bury Gate to Watersfield | 30mph |
| ColdWaltham to Pulborough (A29) | 40mph |
“The route has been assessed in accordance with the WSCC Speed Limit Policy. The result of the assessment is reduced speed limits be introduced along the route.”
Why the change is being proposed and what happens next
In its statement of reasons the county council said the order is intended to reduce speeds, address collisions and "improve road safety for all users." It adds the purpose is to avoid danger to people and traffic and to facilitate safe movement for all road users, including pedestrians.
Anyone wishing to object to or comment on the proposal must submit responses by 20 August. After the consultation period closes, the council will consider representations before deciding whether to confirm the order.
For residents and regular users of the A29, the proposals could mean slower driving conditions but also potentially fewer collisions and a safer environment for those crossing or using the village roads. The inclusion of vehicle-activated signs suggests authorities are aiming to encourage compliance rather than rely solely on enforcement.
Further procedural details, including where to send objections, are set out in the council's public notice.
