In response to a request for support from the Bypass Action Group, RTC Planning and Townscape Committee resolved on Monday, January 16 to investigate the introduction of a 20 mph limit in Rye. Residents, from South Undercliff, Fishmarket Road, New Road and Military Road, would like a 20 mph limit on these four roads but would be happy to see a wider application throughout Rye.
Councillors expressed a mixture of support tempered by caution and a measure of reservation regarding the need for monitoring, collection of data and evidence. The perceived link between action and injury or death and that between traffic flow and higher speeds were cited as factors in official decision making.
The tenor of the meeting was, however, supportive of the residents concerns and council officials would contact “20’s plenty for us” and would report back to the committee.
www.20splenty.org is a not-for-profit organisation which helps communities create a safer environment where they live by setting a mandatory 20mph limit for most roads.
The editor writes:
It is interesting to see results that can be achieved when a group of committed residents becomes organised with a single clearly-defined goal and our Town Council is right to give them support
The roads in question are all residential and, in the case of South Undercliff in particular, narrow with narrow pavements bringing lorries, in particular, perilously close to pedestrians.
A recent visit to New Road showed cars and commercial vehicles travelling at well over the current 30 mph limit and virtually every vehicle setting off the flashing speed limit warning sign. The temporary posters reminding drivers of the speed limit appeared to be having little effect.
Another virtual race track - although not part of the 20 mph campaign - is the one-way system of Ferry Road and Station Approach. The combination of one way and a wider road seems to encourage drivers to 'put their foot down' posing a danger to both pedestrians and cyclists. A blanket 20 mph limit throughout the town is perhaps something to be considered.
Photos: library images
