On 17 September 2023 the Labour Welsh Government changed the default “national” speed limit in "built-up areas" throughout Wales from 30mph to 20mph.
The Welsh Government's own calculations estimate that the cost to make this change will be £32.5m and the long term cost to the Welsh economy will be £4.5bn.
As a rural community, Anglesey has been particularly hard hit by this change. Bus services have been further cut because of longer journey times and this has also impacted those who rely on their vehicles for work and education. Key workers like carers and those working for the emergency services have also been affected.
There are many reasons why a 20mph speed limit is appropriate in some built up areas - in particular around schools, hospitals and care homes - but imposing it as the default limit in rural communities creates further inequalities in already disadvantaged areas of Wales. Few of us on Anglesey would agree with the Welsh Government's claim that the measure only adds "one minute to the average journey time".
Anglesey Council has the powers to revoke the 20mph speed limit in areas where it is not appropriate. I want them to consult the public over which roads should be exempt from the 20 mph speed limit and I need your support to do that.
Please let me know your views so that I can raise them with your local councillors.
