Wiltshire Council has confirmed plans to introduce a new speed limit policy that will expand 20mph restrictions across the region, affecting thousands of motorists. The policy, announced on July 21, 2026, targets residential areas, village centres, town centres, and places with high levels of walking and cycling.
Under the new rules, requests for 20mph speed limits will be assessed directly by the council's Traffic Engineering Team rather than through the Local Highway and Footway Improvement Group (LHFIG). This change is expected to speed up the installation of new speed limits as part of a broader effort to improve road safety.
Faster Implementation of Speed Limits
The new policy provides a more straightforward route for communities seeking 20mph restrictions. Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: "This new policy gives us a clear and consistent framework for making decisions about speed limits across Wiltshire. It helps to ensure decisions are based on evidence, national guidance and local circumstances, while making it easier for communities to understand how requests are considered."
He added: "Importantly, the policy provides a more straightforward route for communities that want to introduce 20mph limits in suitable locations, while also recognising that speed limits are only one part of improving road safety."
Funding and Responsibilities
Wiltshire Council will fund all assessment work and data collection required for the Traffic Regulation Order process for 20mph proposals. However, town and parish councils will be responsible for covering the costs of any physical changes to the road, such as new signs or road markings.
For speed limits of 30mph and above, decisions will continue to be based on detailed assessments, according to the council.
Broader Safety Goals
The policy is part of the council's "Our Wiltshire Plan," which aims to create safer roads and stronger communities. Cllr Smith said: "By helping people feel safer when walking, wheeling and cycling, while taking a proportionate and evidence-led approach to speed management, this policy will support healthier, better-connected communities across the county."
He concluded: "By bringing together speed management, engineering solutions and partnership working with local communities and the police, we can continue working towards our goal of reducing serious and fatal collisions on Wiltshire's roads."
