New speed limit signs to slow down drivers past three Coventry schools

[dutchman]

A council review found there had been one collision in three years in the area



New 20mph advisory speed limit signs will be rolled out near schools in Whitley to combat road safety fears.

A total of 555 people signed a petition for action outside Whitley Academy, Whitley Abbey Primary and Tiverton Special School, which are all accessed via Abbey Road - described as a "rat run" by campaigners.

Speaking in support of the petition at a meeting of Cabinet Member for City Services on Monday, Councillor Roger Bailey (Con, Cheylesmore) said: "It is a unique situation where all of these schools come out on one road.

"Around 35 per cent of the estate signed the petition. That's people saying we must do something to protect the children."

A council review found there had been one collision in three years in the area, with safety schemes explored where there have been six or more.

Since the petition, double yellow lines, school warning signs, 'SLOW' carriageway markings, and a mobile vehicle activated sign have been installed.

Cllr Richard Brown (Lab, Cheylesmore) added: "We are almost there but not quite.

"I understand a 20mph limit won't stop speeding, but if it stops 10 per cent and one of those 10 per cent that causes an accident it will be worth it."

Karen Seager, head of traffic and network management, said there was a possibility of a school advisory 20mph speed limit.

Cabinet member for City Services Cllr Jayne Innes (Lab, Whoberley) added: "Drivers will respect it when they see children.

"I ask we look for areas for those and see where is appropriate."

Cheylesmore Cllr Roger Bailey (Con) said after the meeting: "Some progress has been made but it is slow. They have agreed and promised that they will be making further improvements and we look forward to that."

[Jock Strapp]

I don't get it. The article say that the sign is advisory. If that were the case it would be ignored. But if a number is enclosed by a red circle then that speed limit is mandatory. As usual the Telegraph can't tell its rrrrrs from its elbow.

[rebbonk]

Spot on Jock