Birmingham residents have overwhelmingly rejected Birmingham City Council's proposal to make 20mph speed limits standard on all local roads, with 83 per cent of BirminghamLive readers voting to keep current speed limits in a recent poll.
Last week, the Council announced its vision for the future of the city, stating that 20mph will be "standard on all local roads". The proposal is part of a broader plan to prioritise walking and cycling over car use in residential neighbourhoods.
The poll results show only 17 per cent of readers agreed with the safer streets notion, while the vast majority opposed the change. Hundreds of people also shared their opinions on Facebook, with many critical of the plans.
Public reaction to the 20mph proposal
One Facebook user commented: "Perhaps they've learned from Wales that it's a great money maker!" Another said: "Definitely time to move then!"
However, not all responses were negative. One resident wrote: "Fantastic. Well done Brum. Love to be safe and less polluted."
The mixed reaction highlights a clear divide in public opinion, though the poll indicates a strong majority against the proposal.
Council's vision for walking and cycling
In the City Council's Local Plan, officials said "walking and cycling" are set to become how "most people" will get around their locality. The plan states: "Walking and cycling will become how most people get around their locality most of the time. Cars will no longer dominate street life around homes and schools."
The document adds: "A limit of 20mph will be standard on all local roads. Residential neighbourhoods and local centres will be places where people are put first."
Scope of the 20mph limit
The 20mph vision for Birmingham would not include A roads, which officials described as some of the "most important and busiest metropolitan" routes within the region. Roads outside this category, such as residential streets, would be subject to the new limit.
The proposal has sparked debate among residents, with some concerned about potential enforcement and others welcoming the safety benefits. The Council has yet to announce a timeline for implementation or further consultation.
