I would like my area to be 20mph

How to apply for a 20mph area where you live

How to apply for 20mph

  • If you are a resident, contact your local parish or town council.
  • If you are a parish or town council, you will need the support of your local elected county council member and then you can apply using the link below.

Apply online

How we assess an area

We will meet the parish or town council after assessing an area.

The following factors will be considered in order of importance: 

  • Numbers of people killed or seriously injured
  • Minor accidents
  • Near-misses 
  • Includes a school walking route 
  • Number of pedestrians crossing the road 
  • Includes homes and business
  • Includes a financial contribution
  • Help to deliver other highways aims or policies
  • Presence of an active 30mph Gatso speed monitoring device

Existing Gatso devices

Councils with a 30mph Gatso speed monitoring device in their area are advised to retain this asset to help maintain low speeds in the area. The devices can be built into the design of the scheme to ensure that side roads are still reduced to 20mph.  Existing Gatso cameras can’t be recalibrated to 20mph.

Projects already in progress

We encourage third-party projects (developer or parish-led) already in progress to continue as planned however we would suggest that you contact us. to establish funding options.

Who will enforce it

20mph restrictions are legally enforceable as they are only implemented following the agreement of a Speed Regulation Order.

Thames Valley Police will continue to enforce as they currently do, in line with the speed limits that are in force.

Town and parish councils are encouraged to set up community speed watch programmes.

We will not profit from the introduction of 20mph restrictions. Speeding fines are sent to the UK treasury.

Will street signs and markings increase? 

The design will rely primarily on signs and road markings. Care will be taken in conservation areas and around historic buildings.

Existing 30mph flashing speed signs can be changed for a 20mph version.  This has proven to be a very effective way to reduce speeds within the pilot sites.

If further measures are needed to maintain lower vehicle speeds additional methods will be considered, for example, build-outs and variable speed messaging signs. Town and Parish councils would be expected to fund these extra mitigation measures. Speed humps and Gatso cameras will not be considered.