NEWPORT locals have their say on the proposal for the speed limit on some roads to be reverted back to 30mph.
Yesterday it was reported that Newport City Council has proposed reverting 16 roads to a higher 30mph speed limit across the city.
Speed limit across Wales has been a topic of debate since 20mph speed limits were imposed on most roads in cities, towns and villages.
People have raised grievances about the slower speeds preventing them getting to where they need to be. While others have praised the move to make roads safer.
Susan Graham told the Argus that cars speeding on the roads near her home in Bettws is a problem, saying: “It’s a joke. Around me in Bettws, they use it as a race track.
“They are going to cause an accident. The limits don’t make a difference to them. Call me old fashioned but I would fine them all, take their licenses away.”
(Image: NQ) Susan Graham reacts to the proposed change to the 20mph speed limit.
Ms Graham said the reverting of the speed limit back to 30mph on some roads in Newport “won’t make any difference – they will drive around at 60 anyway”.
However, Jamie Sefton said the 20pmh limit is “wrecking cars – my mum is driving around in low gears because she’s worried she’ll go over 20”.
Mr Sefton said: “I think the roads that are going back [to 30] are good.”
However, Mr Sefton added: “But if it saves lives it’s worth it. If it saves one life then it’s worth it.”
Elizabeth Vaughan said: “I’m not a driver – I take the bus, but I’m often in the car with my mum. Some roads in Newport should stay at 20. Drivers go way too fast.”
Royal Oak Hill is one of the roads that is proposed to be reverted back to 30mph.
Ms Vaughan said: “Royal Oak Hill should not go to 30. It’s far too dangerous. My mum was almost involved in a crash when someone came swinging around way too fast and almost hit us, I was in the passenger seat.”
Ali Qayoumi is also someone who like the current 20mph speed limit, saying: “I prefer the 20 speed limit. I drive a lot and it’s much safer. I don’t mind that it is slower.”
Bettws Lane is on the proposed list to change back to 30mph. But Mr Qayoumi argues that because there is a school there it should stay at 20mph.
Harvey Dryer does not drive to work in Newport but instead takes the train and he said he supported the 20mph limit.
(Image: NQ) Harvey Dryer reacts to the proposed change to 20mph limit.
“I take the train each day so it has not really affected me,” said Mr Dryer.
“I am in favour of decreasing speed limits, it makes things safer.”
The proposed changes to bring back the 30mph limit followed a public consultation which attracted more than 3,500 responses.
City residents suggested 335 roads that should either be considered for a 30mph exemption or should be kept at 20mph.