The criteria for implementing 20mph speed limits

Welsh Government’s legislation requires all ‘restricted roads’ to default to 20mph.  Restricted roads are typically located within built-up areas and are defined by the presence of a ‘system of street lighting’ furnished with lamps not more than 183 metres apart.

A 20mph speed limit should be applied where there is potential for pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles to mix in a frequent manner, with 30mph only being considered where strong evidence exists that higher speeds are safe.

‘Place’ criteria have been developed by Welsh Government to determine where 20mph speed limits should be applied, providing a consistent approach across Wales.

Within 100m walk of…

• Any educational setting e.g. primary, secondary further education and higher education
• Any community centre
• Any hospital
• Where the number of residential and/or retail premises fronting a road exceeds 20 properties per km

In November 2022 Welsh Government also published ‘exceptions criteria’ which detail how highway authorities can set exceptions to 20mph speed limits on restricted roads in Wales.

• Most exceptions are expected to be made on A and B classified roads.  These generally form the main arterial routes carrying through traffic in urban areas.
• ‘C classification’ and ‘unclassified roads’ typically carry mostly local traffic and serve only residential properties. They are usually important routes for people walking and cycling, where pedestrians and/or cyclists and motor vehicles mix in a frequent manner. Typically, exceptions are not considered appropriate for these roads.
• The retention of 30mph speed limits on restricted roads should only be considered by Local Authorities where strong evidence exists that higher speeds are safe and where the requirements of the ‘Place Criteria’ do not apply.
• Decisions on exceptions should not be influenced by existing traffic speeds.
• The fact that a section of road is on a bus route is not in itself a justification for making an exception

To determine the eligibility of a proposed exception please complete the following questions.

The questionnaire will need to be completed separately for each road / stretch of road that you are putting forward for consideration.

Which, if any of the features listed below, are located within 100 metres of the road/stretch of road you are proposing for exception? 

• Access into a hospital or health centre?
• Access into a primary or secondary school?
• Access into a further or higher education building/campus?
• Access into a community centre?
• Does the number of residential and/or retail premises fronting a road exceed 20 properties per kilometre?

20mph Road Assessment Request