I have been received some requests for clarification on the signage etc in respect of the new 30mph speed limit on Leeds Road/A660 through Bramhope. Set out below are various updates from Highways:
Query 1 From a Local Resident
There has been a lengthy discussion about imposing a 30 mph limit on the A660 through Bramhope, but it has just been implemented without any advance warning. I don't object to the revised limit - in fact, I supported it, but I do think people should have been warned it was to happen. I do also have an adverse comment; the 30 sign for Leeds-bound traffic has been placed near the hotel entry, with its notices and shortly before the fork for Church Hill, places where drivers will be concentrating on the potential movements of other traffic. It would have been much better to impose the new limit well before the present location. I have the feeling that the present site was chosen by somebody with a map rather than an actual site visit.
Update 1 from Highways In Respect Of Query 1
Dear Councillor Anderson,
With respect to the positioning of the speed limit. As you will know, Officers are well-versed in the local areas in which they represent and the decision to implement the 30mph speed limit in this location was done so with over ten years direct experience of overseeing the Adel & Wharfedale area. Further, the limit was applied in accordance to national guidance, in that we have set it at the earliest point that the prevailing mean speeds are correct for the lower speed limit.
With respect to notification, Leeds City Council is not obliged to notify local communities of the precise date a speed limit is introduced. We have consulted and legally advertised that measure in accordance with national law, but it would be an unnecessary further cost burden to the authority to undertake any further form of notification. Additionally, the date of implementation can vary (and has done) due to contractor and utilities availability, meaning any such committed date may change at the last minute, thus meaning any previous notification is null.
I hope the above information is of use to you at this point.
Query 2 From A Local Resident
Asking around friends and neighbours it seems few are aware of the (welcome) reduction in the speed limit to 30 mph.
I have noticed that commuting traffic is also seemingly unaware of the changes, including trucks.
It prompts the thought that a couple of bright yellow temporary signs informing drivers of the change might be a simple way of conveying information about the change. I've seen similar signs elsewhere.
Could you arrange for this? I'm aware of the drivers' responsibilities, but unless people are on your circulation lists it hasn't been otherwise prominently promoted.
Update 2 From Highways In respect of Query 2
Typically we would install signs for a temporary period to inform drivers of ‘New 30mph speed limit in force’ and these should have been installed but appear not to have been. I will liaise with colleagues to ensure of their installation.
