Argyll and Bute is set to trial 20mph speed zones, thanks to £78,000 in funding from Transport Scotland.
The initiative aims to create safer streets and promote active travel in local communities.
An external consultant will be hired for a year to oversee the project, which also covers traffic surveys, publications, and necessary software.
Argyll and Bute Council’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee revealed the project’s timeline, estimating it will take up to two years to complete.
Key stages include reviewing existing speed limit proposals, procuring surveys, and liaising with community councils and elected officials.
Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders will be prepared and implemented to test the zones.
Data from the trial, including community feedback, will be analysed to assess the effectiveness of the speed limits.
Permanent Traffic Regulation Orders could follow, alongside traffic calming measures like speed bumps if necessary.
The project aligns with the Scottish Government’s goal of creating a healthier, safer, and greener Scotland.
Reducing speed limits to 20mph is seen as a step towards more equitable sharing of road space among all users.
Currently, most restricted roads have a default speed limit of 30mph.
In December 2023, the Scottish Government opted to pursue localised 20mph zones via traffic regulation orders rather than applying a blanket restriction.
Evaluation will determine whether the 20mph zones effectively reduce speeds, guiding future decisions.
Without physical interventions like chicanes or signage, zones may revert to the 30mph default if speed reductions are insufficient.
Councillor John Armour welcomed the funding, highlighting the opportunity to gather crucial data.
“Our roads are busier than ever, serving various users, so we need solutions that work for everyone,” said Armour.
He stressed that no immediate decisions will be made, as further details will be reviewed in future meetings.
Community input will play a vital role in shaping the outcome, with Armour urging residents to share their views when asked.
Statistics show a pedestrian hit by a car at 30mph is seven times more likely to die than at 20mph.
This trial offers a chance to rethink road safety and enhance the quality of life for all road users.
