Birmingham City Council has introduced new 30mph speed limits on several major roads across the city, replacing previous 40mph zones as part of a road safety crackdown. Motorists are now at risk of receiving speeding tickets if they fail to adhere to the reduced limits, with penalties theoretically possible for driving as fast as 31mph on roads where 40mph was previously allowed.
New Speed Limits on Key Routes
The new restrictions have been implemented over recent weeks on major thoroughfares including parts of the A34 Walsall Road, A38 Bristol Road South, and A456 Hagley Road West, among others. Council officials state that these measures are part of a broader safety drive aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on Birmingham's roads. The initiative also includes the installation of new speed cameras and a ban on pavement parking.
Enforcement and Tolerance
While police sometimes exercise discretion for drivers only slightly exceeding the limit, this is not guaranteed. The widely speculated '10% plus 2' tolerance rule—which might allow speeds up to 35mph in a 30mph zone without penalty—is not an official policy. Officers may choose to fine motorists for driving at 31 or 32mph, and any speed above the limit carries a risk of enforcement. Police may conduct speeding operations along these routes to monitor compliance.
Official Statement
Cllr Majid Mahmood, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for transport and environment, said: “When we declared a road safety emergency, we promised to take action and this is what is happening. Our message here is simple: Slower is Safer. Stick to speed limits and save lives.”
