Petition calls to extend 20mph limit on busy Leighton Buzzard road
A petition is calling for a lower speed limit along a busy Leighton Buzzard road following concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic speeds.
Liberal Democrats councillors have started a petition calling on Central Bedfordshire Council to extend the existing limit – and said 156 (76.1 per cent) of the 205 people who responded to a survey supported an extension.
The survey, carried out by councillors Chris Leaman, Shaun Roberts and Emma Holland-Lindsay, asked how far the existing 20mph limit should be extended.
Respondents could choose the Harrow Road roundabout, the Lywood Road roundabout or the whole length of Stanbridge Road. They could also oppose any extension.
The councillors said the survey followed concerns raised by residents about traffic speeds, HGV movements and road safety.
Councillor Roberts, who represents Leighton Linslade South, said: “Thank you to all the residents who took part in our survey to let us know what you think needs to change to make this road safer.
“Residents are clear they want to see action, and so we are encouraging all residents in the area to sign our petition so that we can push Central Beds Council to take action.
He said reducing the speed limit would be a first step towards improving safety, while reducing HGV traffic would require longer-term work involving the council, police and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
Fellow ward councillor Leaman said: “Safety is a real concern for residents around Stanbridge Road, with traffic often travelling at high speeds and putting pedestrians at risk.
“Stanbridge Road is a key route for children travelling to and from three nearby schools and so it is vital that we improve safety.”
The petition, which opened on October 13, is due to close on November 24.
In an earlier statement, councillor John Baker, the council's executive member for highways, said the chair of the Leighton Joint Committee had requested that traffic petitions in Leighton Buzzard be referred to the committee for consideration.
The council has also been asked whether it is considering extending the 20mph limit and what steps would follow the petition. A response had not been received at the time of publication.