Major roads across Stevenage and Baldock could soon see new 20mph speed limits under plans being developed by Hertfordshire County Council.
The proposals, which would affect thousands of residents, focus on the Chells area of Stevenage and parts of Baldock as part of a broader county-wide programme to introduce lower speed zones.
Now the council is preparing to consult local residents on the proposed changes, which form part of an extensive scheme that has already seen similar consultations in Hitchin, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield and St Albans.
The council has begun gathering traffic data in target areas to determine what specific measures should be introduced.
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At least 500 roads have been targeted for lower speed limits under the proposals
PA
If approved, the changes will be part of Hertfordshire County Council’s wider initiative that has identified over 500 areas suitable for 20mph speed limits.
The programme primarily targets residential roads, town centres, high streets and local shopping areas that currently have 30mph limits.
However, main roads deemed more important for transport and movement will not be included in the scheme, the council noted.
Design work has already commenced on what the council describes as “the highest priority projects.”
The minimum changes will include a legal order to change the speed limit to 20mph, alongside the installation of new signs and road lining to inform drivers.
Additional traffic calming measures may also be implemented, with the specific measures depending on the required speed reduction and existing road conditions.
The council said it will consult residents and stakeholders on all proposed schemes, ensuring local people “can have their say on what is being proposed.”
It has outlined its prioritisation strategy, with funding available until March 2026. Areas have been grouped based on natural boundaries such as busy roads, green spaces and railway lines.
The council is also considering existing Air Quality Management areas and overall cost effectiveness in determining which zones to implement first.
The areas selected are specifically targeted at locations where the council wants “people to feel safe and comfortable in the street environment and encouraged to walk and cycle their journeys.”
Similar schemes have also been announced in Borehamwood, covering the Studio Way area and Borehamwood South.
Additional consultations are planned for the Grovehill area of Hemel Hempstead, West of Cheshunt area, South Ware, and Bishops Stortford West.
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Council did note that main roads will not be impacted by 20mph limits
PA
The council added: “We have started gathering data on the current traffic speeds and volumes in target areas. This will inform what measures should be introduced.
“Design work has started on some of the highest priority projects. We’ll consult local residents and stakeholders on all schemes so people can have their say on what is being proposed.”
