THE DANGERS OF MULTIPLE SPEED SIGNS - Letter (12/12/05)

The Conservative Group at Somerset County Council agree with the argument that frequent changes in speed limits increase the risk of accidents as drivers are constantly looking out for speed signs and checking their speed instead of concentrating on the other aspects of their driving. Further, it leads to unnecessary penalties for those conscientious drivers who would not wish to speed, but are confused by the frequent changes.

With huge public support, we pressed the Council to change its policy. We are pleased that as a consequence some roads have been reviewed and have had more sensible and consistent speed limits put in place.

However, the County Council now claims that it has no more money to continue the reviews, so many roads will continue to be ridden with ludicrous numbers of speed signs and changes.

Highways safety is of paramount concern. It is essential to limit speed in order to prevent accidents. Somerset County Council must listen to the public, implement consistent and reasonable limits, and reduce the frequency of speed limit changes in order to improve our safety.

Anthony Trollope-Bellew

Conservative Group Spokesman for Highways and Planning, Somerset County Council