Council moves ahead with next phase of traffic-calming measures
Westmorland and Furness Council has approved the progression of 17 community-backed 20mph speed limit proposals to the statutory consultation stage after an extensive public engagement exercise. The decision follows more than 2,000 responses to 26 draft schemes in phase three of the council's rolling programme to reduce vehicle speeds in built-up areas.
What was agreed and what will change
Locality boards for Eden, Furness and South Lakeland considered the consultation outcomes before giving approval for the schemes to progress. Of the 26 initial proposals put forward this year:
- 11 schemes will progress as originally proposed;
- 6 schemes will proceed but with revisions based on community feedback;
- 9 proposals attracted insufficient support and will not be taken forward.
| Phase three outcome | Number of proposals |
|---|---|
| Proceed as proposed | 11 |
| Proceed with changes | 6 |
| Not progressing | 9 |
Programme so far and council rationale
The schemes form part of a multi-year initiative. Once these latest proposals are implemented, the council will have supported 60 20mph schemes across the area since 2023. The measures are designed in accordance with Department for Transport guidance and target built-up towns and villages where the current maximum speed limit is 40mph or below.
"I am pleased that these 20mph schemes will now progress to the next stage. By reducing speed limits, safety is improved and more people are encouraged to walk and cycle, contributing to a healthier, more sustainable environment. When these latest schemes are implemented, we will have supported 60 communities to introduce 20mph schemes. Sixty communities the length and breadth of Westmorland and Furness which are safer for all."
Local impact and next steps
Progressing to statutory consultation means the council will publish proposed legal orders and invite formal objections and representations. Final decisions on implementation will follow that statutory process. For residents, the schemes are intended to:
- reduce vehicle speeds on residential streets and near community facilities;
- encourage walking and cycling by making routes feel safer;
- deliver a more sustainable street environment in towns and villages.
While the council highlights safety and active travel benefits, the mixed response across the 26 proposals demonstrates that community support remains crucial. Nine proposals did not secure adequate backing and were dropped at this stage, underscoring that local views continue to shape where limits will change.
Residents in areas due to enter statutory consultation will be able to submit formal comments once the legal orders are published. The council has not announced a timetable for implementation pending the conclusion of that process and any subsequent decisions.
