A new 10mph speed limit imposed on a vital London road has been met with anger and frustration from drivers, with some branding the measure a 'joke' and 'ridiculous'.
Backlash Against 'Dramatic' Reduction
Labour-run Islington Council has introduced the dramatically reduced speed limit on the stretch of road connecting Angel Underground Station and Smithfield Market. The limit has been slashed from the standard 20mph, sparking a fierce backlash from motorists and local business owners alike.
One resident did not hold back, stating the restriction was 'a joke' and 'ridiculous', adding that 'in London, [speed limits] are a liberty... If you're driving, it's a joke.'
Business and Practical Concerns Mount
The impact is being felt beyond just driver inconvenience. One shop owner reported a stark 25 per cent reduction in takings, which he directly attributes to the roadworks blocking access to his premises.
'At the moment we're struggling, we're losing the parking, losing the business at the moment,' the owner explained. 'Less people are coming because this road is blocked,' he warned, suggesting trade would likely continue to decline throughout the construction period.
Motorcyclist Phil Cudlipp explained the practical difficulties, noting his Harley-Davidson motorcycle already struggles at 20mph and would likely stall at the new, lower speed. He told The Telegraph, 'I walk everywhere now, there's nowhere to park my bike nine times out of 10.' He also raised concerns about increased idling, saying, 'At traffic lights, there'll be a lot more people sitting there, and that means there's a lot more cars ticking over going nowhere.'
Council Defends Safety and Environmental Aims
Despite the criticism, the council is standing by its decision. Islington councillor Rowena Champion told GB News that the plans followed public consultations in 2019 and late 2024.
She stated the project aims to address what local people wanted: 'a greener, more accessible, and pleasant street environment for residents and local workers.' Champion asserted, 'These changes will do just that. They will make the area safer, greener, and more enjoyable for everyone—and they’ll help us tackle the climate crisis by encouraging more environmentally friendly ways of getting around.'
This view found some support. Another local commented, 'I like the idea; I think this is already a very pedestrianised area,' adding, 'There are tonnes of cyclists in this area... so I think it might make it a bit safer.'
