Following a local campaign organised on the Fishermead estate, Milton Keynes City Council has announced that work is now underway to establish a 20mph Zone on the local streets.
A petition requesting the new speed limit was organised with local community groups.
Over 500 signatures were obtained from individual householders representing almost half the estate.
Sophie Richens, who inspired the campaign after she and her family were struck by a car while walking in Fishermead said: “My 12-year-old niece was killed in a car accident and my own kids have had their own near misses. For the climate we need our kids walking to school, but only if it’s safe from speeding cars.”
David Hart, a campaign leader who has lived on Fishermead for more than 30 years, said: “The design of the estate streets means that in many places cars travel inches away from children on the pavement. Research shows that a 20mph speed limit would mean a sevenfold reduction in the change of serious injury compared to 30mph.”
Graham Cox, Head of Highways for MK City Council, wrote to the Council Leader last month: “I can confirm that following the Fishermead petition, we have undertaken speed surveys to assess the scale of the problem and to identify suitable methods of traffic calming.
"We are about to start localised consultations on the proposals, and then subject to feedback, the final design will be taken forward to implementation later this year.”
Tom Bulman, Community Organiser of the Fishermead Citizens project, which is funded by MK Community Foundation, said: “The 20 Is Plenty campaign has brought the community together. Most residents feel proud of their estate and want to feel safe. This will make them feel safer.”
