Health and safety campaigners are watching closely as the Labour Government has reportedly abandoned plans to impose limits on Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and 20mph zones, measures often linked to reducing road accidents and protecting vulnerable road users.
According to the Daily Mail, the move scraps earlier Conservative proposals that would have curtailed councils’ ability to issue fines or introduce new LTNs and speed-restricted areas. Roads minister Lilian Greenwood is said to have confirmed that the reforms have been “put on hold” while the Government considers next steps.
Opponents argue that dropping the plans will unfairly burden motorists with parking charges and create challenges for high streets. Richard Holden, shadow transport secretary, described the decision as part of a “targeted war on motorists,” claiming it would damage both the economy and local communities.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said councils remain best placed to decide on traffic management schemes, provided they engage local communities. They stressed that the Government is “on the side of drivers,” highlighting £500 million in additional funding to resurface roads and repair seven million potholes, plus £1 billion committed to repairing bridges, flyovers and tunnels.
They added that ministers are also preparing the first comprehensive road safety strategy in more than a decade, aimed at making journeys safer and reducing risks for all road users.
