A 20mph limit is one step closer to being introduced in Richmond, following agreement from the Council’s Scrutiny Committee last night.

The amended proposal will now be reviewed by the Council’s Cabinet on March 14.

Following a 12-week consultation held last year, amended proposals on the 20mph were published. The new proposals take into account the views of residents, including a revision of the proposed 20mph speed limit on the A308 between Kingston and Hampton, including Hampton Court Road, Upper Sunbury Road and Lower Sunbury Road (excluding Thames Street).

In addition, the initial exclusion of the A310 between Kingston Bridge roundabout and Twickenham and part of the A305 between Apex Corner roundabout and Twickenham town centre.

These exclusions would be subject to a study aimed at introducing collision and speed reduction measures and would determine whether to implement 20mph on these section of roads at a future time.

At last night’s Committee meeting, members heard representations from residents and stakeholders. This included an A & E doctor who gave a detailed account of the difference a drop-in speed can make when a car hits a child.

Following an emotive discussion, the Committee voted in favour of the proposal, requesting that Cabinet consider condensing the timeline for implementation, so the limit can be introduced at a faster rate.

Cllr Alexander Ehmann, Cabinet Member for Transport, Streetscene and Air Quality said: “I understand the strong feelings on both sides of this debate. A majority of residents who took part in this consultation acknowledged that a borough-wide 20mph limit would improve road safety. The oldest and youngest in our communities were overwhelming in favour and it simply cannot be denied that the slower vehicles drive, the safer our roads become.

“The proposal now on the table takes into account a number of the reservations that residents highlighted regarding the evaluation, enforcement and practical implementation of the speed limit. We will carry out further research and evaluation on those roads, ensuring a strong voice for local residents in that process.”

If the decision is approved by the Cabinet a speed limit order will be advertised and any representations considered. Read the full Cabinet Report here.