COUNCIL’S CONCERN OVER SIGNAGE FOR SPEED LIMIT CHANGE ON A316
Richmond Council has expressed serious concerns that Transport for London (TfL) is not doing enough to inform residents of their plans to lower the speed limit on a busy stretch of the A316 from 40mph to 30mph – with no extra warning signs in place when the change comes into force TOMORROW.
The new 30mph limit will apply between St Margaret’s Roundabout and Richmond Circus.
The Council supports the introduction of a consistent 30mph speed limit along this part of the A316 and has welcomed the move as an important step towards improving road safety.
However, the Council has highlighted the importance of clear signage to ensure drivers are aware of the change from the outset.
While recognising the constraints of national guidance on the use of certain signs on lit roads, the Council has asked TfL to consider temporary measures to complement permanent signage and help reduce the risk of drivers unintentionally exceeding the new limit, including:
- Temporary “new 30mph speed limit” signs
- 30mph signage painted on the carriageway, designed to fade over time
- Lamp post banners advertising the speed reduction
At present, no additional temporary signage will be in place when the new speed limit comes into force, despite lamp post banners being used extensively on other schemes in other London boroughs.
Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of Richmond’s Transport and Air Quality Committee, said: “It is simply outrageous that there are no additional measures in place to help drivers understand the new limit.
“While we support the introduction of a consistent 30mph speed limit along this stretch of the A316, it is important that drivers are aware of the change when it is introduced.
“Simple, temporary measures play a valuable role in helping people adjust to a new limit and in improving overall compliance. We have raised these options on several occasions. Failure to introduce these measures risks undermining the effectiveness of the new limit in improving road safety.”
The importance of clearer signage has also been highlighted by residents, including through a local petition calling for improved safety at St Margaret’s and along the A316 corridor.
The Council has asked TfL to take part in a public meeting, where residents can receive an update on progress on local safety measures and raise questions directly. The meeting is expected to take place in May.
Councillor Ehmann added: “Richmond Council will continue to press for practical measures to improve awareness and compliance.”
For further information, please visit the TfL website.