four people walking by a 20mph road sign in the background

Published: Friday, 22nd September 2023

Cllr Averil Lekau and Eltham Town & Avery Hill Royal Greenwich ward councillors visited Eltham to see road safety improvements completed in the Sparrows Lane area.

The 20mph speed limit has been introduced in Sparrows Lane, to help improve safety and accessibility for people walking, cycling and scooting. Introduced following consultation with local residents, the new safety features will create calmer roads and public space, helping to reduce the risk of casualties.

Cllr Averil Lekau, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: "The safety of our residents is of the utmost importance, and we’re dedicated to creating a secure environment for everyone. By implementing these 20mph speed limit zones in areas where the data shows improvements are needed, we aim to reduce vehicle speeds and promote road safety in our borough.

A person is five times less likely to die in an accident at 20 mph than at 30 mph, meaning lowering speeds is essential to minimising the risks for road users. The changes to the Sparrows Lane area roads include the installation of road humps, speed tables, speed cushions and appropriate signage, which will help control vehicle speeds, creating a safer environment for all road users.

The Council is planning more 20mph zones across the borough, prioritised using data on the number and severity of collisions and their location. This could include residential areas, sites close to a school or community centre, which attracts a high number of visitors.

The work plays a key part in delivering our Transport Strategy, by improving the safety of our streets and public places, and creating attractive neighbourhoods. The Royal Borough of Greenwich is investing £3.1 million to improve its transport network and make it cleaner, safer and healthier. The funding includes £1 million of the Council's own budget and £2.1 million from Transport for London (TfL).