Written Statement: One year on: Next steps for 20mph

On the anniversary of the introduction of the 20mph default speed limit on restricted roads in Wales, I am pleased to outline the next steps as we continue working towards safer roads. The primary objective of this policy is clear: to save lives and reduce casualties. The early signs are encouraging, with a reduction in speeds and fewer collisions since the 20mph limit was introduced.

Earlier this year, I announced a three-phase plan for 20mph, which included a National Listening Programme. Over the summer, we encouraged people, businesses, and communities across Wales to share their views, particularly on which roads should retain the 20mph limit and which could revert to 30mph. I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to provide feedback. This input has been vital in shaping the next steps.

We’ve completed the first two phases of our plan:

1. Listening Programme: We engaged with a diverse range of voices, including supporters and critics of the policy, to gather feedback on where the 20mph limit should be applied.
2. Partnership with Highway Authorities: Through a series of regional workshops, we worked in partnership with local government officers to co-create revised guidance, published in July. This gives them greater flexibility to implement exceptions to 20mph where it is safe and rational to do so. This new decision-making framework will also support a more consistent application of 20mph across Wales.

We have now entered the third phase: 

3. Making changes on the ground: Highway authorities are now reviewing feedback received to ensure that 20mph is applied to the right roads—where people live, work, and play. 

I’m pleased to see that some councils are starting to publish their next steps in response to public feedback and the assessments they will conduct in accordance with the revised Welsh Government guidance. I expect others to follow in the coming weeks and months.

Once this review is complete, if highway authorities decide to adjust speed limits on specific roads, they will commence the process of making statutory Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs), providing another opportunity for public engagement. This will ensure that decisions remain transparent and that communities continue to be involved in these local choices at every stage.

I would particularly like to thank our local government partners for their hard work and dedication. However, we know there is more to do. The pace of progress will vary in different areas, depending on local circumstances and the amount of feedback received. I am confident that by working together, we will ensure the right speeds are set on the right roads, helping to make Wales’ roads safer for everyone whilst keeping the economy moving and communities connected.