Councillors Vote Yes to Implementation of New 20mph Speed Limits in Penrith and some Local Villages

Councillors meeting at Penrith Leisure Centre tonight have voted to approve the introduction of new 20mph speed limits, in some areas of Penrith and in nearby communities including Clifton, Gamblesby, Glassonby, Great Asby, Greystoke, Sockbridge and Tirril, and Stainton.

The decision comes after two consultations in Penrith and local villages last year, with council officers recommending to the members of the Eden Locality Committee on Wednesday night that the schemes should be introduced as advertised.

The proposals have generated strong opinions on both sides’ responses to the statutory consultation that firmed the final stage of the process to introduce the new 20mph limits. Supporters told the council that speeding has been a long-standing problem, particularly on residential streets with narrow pavements, poor visibility and high pedestrian use.

In Penrith, residents raised concerns about near-misses, minor collisions and fast-moving traffic on roads used daily by children, elderly residents and people walking to schools and shops. Many said lower speeds would make streets feel safer and improve quality of life.

Opponents to the plans for the new 20mph limits argued the changes are unnecessary, questioning whether there is enough evidence to justify reducing speed limits. Others warned that the measures could increase congestion, frustrate drivers and make little difference if existing limits are already ignored. Enforcement was a recurring concern, with several people asking whether new signs would simply be overlooked without regular policing.

Council officers acknowledged the objections received during the statutory consultation but maintained that the 20mph limits are a preventative safety measure, intended to reduce both the likelihood and severity of collisions, particularly those involving vulnerable road users. They confirmed that the schemes are sign-only, with no speed humps or traffic calming, and that enforcement will be carried out through existing police arrangements.

Council officers also confirmed that Castletown residents will be consulted in a few weeks on proposals to introduce 20mph limits in the area after a lack of responses to community engagement last year resulted in Castletown been excluded from the current round of 20mph implementation.