If you have a view on the speed limits in Weare and the Allertons, letters of support or objection are needed by Somerset Council by the end of July. The original, broader scheme was scrapped by councillors, but officers have introduced a smaller proposal.
If you want to have your say, please email [email protected] quoting reference number ET30052025. The notice from the council is attached.
My letter is as follows:-
***
Ref: ET30052025
Dear Aileen,
I am writing with reference to the proposals to modify speed limits within Weare and Chapel Allerton parishes. I was disappointed when the original scheme, developed almost 5 years ago, was scrapped by the council, although I understand that the new proposals are broadly welcomed by residents.
The speed that some vehicles reach on these narrow country lanes makes them dangerous to other road users, especially cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.
There is a local village school, a pre-school nursery and multiple employers within the footprint of these proposals; some of the latter use HGVs. There are also numerous concealed residential property entrances and several blind corners.
Reducing the speed limit on these narrow roads will improve safety for all users and reduce the number of accidents. In addition, only when roads feel safer will residents, parents and employees switch from driving to cycling or walking - a principle that all constituents must consider if the council is to meet its target of a carbon neutral Somerset by 2030.
Therefore I would strongly support the scheme and look forward to its expeditious implementation.