Speed limit changes proposed for South Cumberland to make roads safer

The changes put forward by Cumberland Council would see a total of 20 speed limit reductions imposed across the South Cumberland area.

Overview of proposals - speed limit review (Image: Cumberland Council)

In Whitehaven, national speed limits at Victoria Road / Quality Corner, Round Close Park and Whelpside, Hensingham, are set to be replaced by 30mph limits.

A 40mph speed limit would replace the national speed limit at Red Lonning and a 30mph speed limit would also be introduced on part of High Road, Kells, which currently has a 40mph limit.

Elsewhere, a 40mph limit is set to replace the national speed limit on the road between Moor Row and Galemire and a 30mph limit would replace the 40mph limit between Lowca and the A595.

A new 30mph limit would replace the current 40mph limit on the road between Lowca and the A595 (Image: Newsquest)

A 50mph speed limit is proposed for the B5344 Gosforth to Seascale Road, which is currently the national speed limit and a 30mph limit would replace the national speed limit on part of Shore Road, Drigg.

Emma Williamson, deputy leader for Cumberland Council, who represents Kells and Sandwith, said she supported the speed reduction at High Road.

She said: “Reducing the speed limit on High Road from 40 to 30mph can be a positive step toward improving safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

The proposed speed limit reduction at High Road, Kells (Image: Cumberland Council)

“I believe this will help reduce the chance of accidents, and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Additionally, it may encourage more people to walk or cycle, contributing to healthier communities.”

Joseph Ghayouba, who represents Bransty on Cumberland Council, said he was in favour of the proposed speed limit change at Quality Corner / Victoria Road.

A new 30mph limit would replace the existing national speed limit at Quality Corner in Whitehaven (Image: Newsquest)

He said: “I fully support measures which will make the roads safer. This is an area that has had a new development and is often busy at the junction around school start and finish times with both increased amount of pedestrians and vehicles.”

Chris Gigg, chair of Drigg & Carleton Parish Council, said: “Drigg & Carleton Parish Council approves of any amendment to the speed limit which is appropriate for that stretch of road and contributes to the safety and quality of life of our parishioners.”

The proposed speed limit reduction at Shore Road, Drigg (Image: Cumberland Council)

A Cumberland Council spokesperson said: “Cumberland Council is conducting a comprehensive review of speed limits in the South Cumberland area.

“This review will take into account public requests, discussions with the police, recommendations from road safety studies, and requirements specified in planning conditions.

The proposed speed limit reduction at Whelpside, Hensingham (Image: Cumberland Council)

“We invite the public to provide feedback by emailing us at trafficteam.west@cumberland.gov.uk  before the closing date of Wednesday, August 7, when the consultations will come to a close.”