From Sunday (17 September 2023), a default speed limit of 20mph will come into force on many roads where people live, work and play on Anglesey, and the rest of Wales.

The Welsh Government is changing the default speed limit to make streets safer by reducing the likelihood of collisions - and death or injury from them. The changes will happen on roads that are currently subject to a 30mph speed limit, usually located in residential and built-up areas which people use frequently.

Anglesey Council’s Highways team, in partnership with its highway maintenance term contractor, Griffiths Civil Engineering, have been busy erecting new 20mph speed limit signage along all affected roads. A total of nearly 700 signs have been replaced as part of this project.

The new legislation does not mean all roads will change to 20mph, some will remain at 30mph and will be known as exceptions. Following a public consultation with residents and local communities earlier this year, some roads have been exempted and will remain at their current speed limit of 30mph.

You can see which roads are affected on the Data Maps Wales website. Anglesey Council has previously introduced advisory 20mph speed limits outside schools due to the recognised health and safety benefits.

A Welsh public health study estimated that the 20mph default speed limit could result in:

• 40% fewer collisions
• saving 6 to 10 lives every year
• and avoiding 1200 to 2000 people being injured every year.

Evidence shows that people feel more comfortable to walk and cycle when vehicle speeds are slower, and it is safer for children to walk to school; and older people, disabled people or people with additional needs are also more able to travel independently.

Welsh Government Deputy Minister for Climate Change, with responsibility for transport, Lee Waters said: “The evidence from around the world is very clear – reducing speed limits reduces collisions and saves lives. Slower speeds also help create a safer and more welcoming community, giving people the confidence to walk and cycle more, improving their health and wellbeing whilst protecting the environment.”

Anglesey Council’s Head of Highways, Waste and Property, Huw Percy said, “The Welsh Government’s plans to lower the default speed limit to 20mph on restricted roads will come into force on Sunday. As a local authority we have ensured that all affected signs have been changed and will be ready for the roll out. This follows an extensive consultation with residents and communities to outline exceptions in certain locations to stay at 30mph, subject to meeting the criteria set by Transport for Wales.”

Griffiths Civil Engineering Operations Director for North Wales, Owain Thomas said "We are pleased to support Anglesey Council with their preparations in readiness for this new legislation. Reducing speed limits to 20mph in Wales promotes safer streets, encourages active transportation, and enhances the overall quality of life for our communities."

You can find out more information about 20mph on the Welsh Government website.

End 15 September 2023

Notes to editors

Introducing 20mph speed limits: answers to frequently asked questions can be found on the Welsh Government website.