Local councillors who revoke 20mph speed limits or dismantle Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) may face legal consequences if their decisions lead to road deaths, according to new legal advice.
Legal Risks for Councils
The guidance suggests that elected officials could be held personally liable for fatalities resulting from such policy reversals. This comes amid growing controversy over traffic-calming measures across the UK.
Why This Matters
With many councils facing pressure to remove these schemes, the legal opinion serves as a stark warning:
- Officials must consider road safety implications of policy changes
- Personal liability could extend to individual councillors
- Decisions must be evidence-based to withstand legal scrutiny
The Political Backdrop
The debate over 20mph zones and LTNs has become increasingly polarised. While supporters argue they improve safety and air quality, opponents claim they cause congestion and harm businesses.
Key fact: Research shows 20mph zones can reduce collisions by up to 40%, making liability concerns particularly significant.
What Happens Next?
Councils are now being urged to seek specialist legal advice before making changes to existing traffic schemes. The guidance could fundamentally alter how local authorities approach these contentious policies.
