Introduction of 20mph speed limits aims to reduce road collisions, with evidence showing that a 1mph decrease in speed can reduce crashes by up to 6%.
Newham Council has successfully implemented 20mph speed limits across the borough, marking a major milestone in its commitment to improving road safety, promoting healthier lifestyles, and addressing health inequalities for residents, workers, and visitors. This initiative aligns with the Council’s dedication to the Vision Zero strategy, which aims to eliminate all fatalities and serious injuries on the roads by 2041.
The introduction of 20mph speed limits is a transformative step designed to reduce the number and severity of road traffic collisions. Between 2017 and 2022, Newham recorded 5,200 road collision casualties, including 16 fatalities and 598 serious injuries. Most of these severe incidents occurred on roads with a 30mph speed limit. Evidence shows that a 1mph reduction in average speed can lead to a 6% decrease in collisions, making the new speed limit a critical intervention for public safety.
Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, hailed the initiative as a significant achievement. She said, “Today marks a significant achievement for Newham as we complete the rollout of 20mph speed limits across the borough. This vital measure will improve road safety, reduce collisions and save lives. By reducing road danger, we’re helping to protect vulnerable communities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can travel safely. As we work towards Vision Zero, this step is an important part of our commitment to creating a safer, greener, and more connected Newham for all.”
Councillor Sarah Ruiz, Statutory Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainable Transport, Children Services and Education, echoed this sentiment. “The rollout of the 20mph speed limit across Newham is a vital step toward creating safer streets for everyone. By reducing speed, we can significantly lower the risk of serious injuries and fatalities while promoting healthier lifestyles through walking and cycling. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving road safety and addressing health inequalities, ensuring that all residents, regardless of background, can feel secure and supported in their daily travels. It’s part of our wider vision to build a more sustainable, active, and vibrant community for the future,” she said.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond road safety. Research shows that individuals in more deprived areas, particularly young men, are disproportionately affected by road injuries and fatalities. Between 2017 and 2019, people living in the most deprived 30% of London had double the rate of serious injuries or fatalities compared to those in less deprived areas. The 20mph speed limit rollout addresses these disparities, offering a safer environment for all residents and fostering a more equitable community.
Mandy Young, Deputy Head Teacher of Rebecca Cheetham Nursery School and Children’s Centre, highlighted the importance of this initiative for young residents. “We are delighted that Newham Council is lowering traffic speeds across the borough. We encourage our children to walk, cycle and scoot to school, and reduced traffic speeds make it easier and safer for children across Newham to get to school in healthy and sustainable ways,” she said.
The rollout also brings Newham into alignment with neighbouring boroughs that have already implemented similar speed limits, ensuring consistency and improving road safety across the wider region. While most roads in Newham now fall under the 20mph speed limit, some major roads, private streets, and roads not managed by the Council are excluded from the programme and will retain their existing speed limits.
By introducing the 20mph limits, Newham Council not only takes a step closer to achieving the Vision Zero strategy but also underscores its commitment to creating a safer, greener, and healthier borough for its residents. Through this initiative, the Council aims to foster a culture of sustainable transport, reduce road danger, and enhance the quality of life for all who live and work in Newham.
