An East Sussex council has taken a decisive step towards making all future housing developments safer by proposing a mandatory 20mph speed limit on their roads.
Unanimous Council Backing for Safer Streets
Rother District Council (RDC) recently held a full council meeting where members unanimously agreed to consult on a new road safety plan. The motion, submitted by Cllr Kathryn Field, the council's portfolio holder for environment, seeks to embed a requirement for 20mph as the maximum design speed on all roads within new housing estates.
If approved, the policy would compel developers to design their road layouts in a way that naturally discourages higher speeds, making 20mph the default. The council stated that the core focus of the proposal is pedestrian safety and community wellbeing, aiming to create neighbourhoods that are more welcoming and secure for residents.
Planting Seeds for Inclusive Communities
Cllr Kathryn Field explained the rationale behind the move. "By requiring housing developers to design their roads with low traffic speeds, we're planting the seeds for safer, more inclusive communities," she said. "If agreed, this step will protect families, support healthier travel options, and create environments where people feel comfortable getting around on foot or by bike."
The council argues that slower vehicle speeds reduce the severity of accidents and are crucial for encouraging active travel, such as walking and cycling. They also believe it can enhance community cohesion and individual wellbeing.
Path to Implementation and Planning Policy
The proposed 20mph rule for new developments could be formally cemented into the council's upcoming planning policies. It is being considered for inclusion in the draft Policy LWL7, which is part of the council's Regulation 18 Local Plan consultation scheduled for January.
RDC confirmed that, should the policy be adopted, council officers will work directly with developers and community groups to ensure its effective implementation on the ground. This consultation marks a significant shift in how the local authority approaches road design and public safety in growing areas.
