€2m available to local authorities to implement 30km/h speed limits in residential areas – Donohoe

4th February, 2015

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD, has today (Wednesday) announced an allocation of €2 million for local authorities to support them in implementing 30km/h speed limits in housing estates and residential areas.

 

The funding is part of an overall allocation of €294 million announced yesterday by Minister Donohoe for the maintenance and strengthening of the local and regional road network.

 

“Last October, I issued a circular to all local authorities asking them to review the speed limits in place in residential and local housing estates in their area to determine whether or not appropriate speed limits and signage are in place, especially where children are at play. This was on the back of a number of meetings I had with the Jake’s Legacy campaign group, who are campaigning for reduced speed limits following the tragic death of young Jake Brennan last year.

 

“As the bodies charged with statutory responsibility for local speed limits, local authorities were asked to carry out this review in consultation with local residents, with a view to adopting bye-laws to reduce the speed limit to 30km/h where appropriate. I have previously indicated my willingness to have funds allocated from my Department to assist with the cost purchasing and erecting signage and of having speed ramps built where needed.

 

“I have now set aside €2 million that I am making available to local authorities who have identified a need for traffic calming measures and a reduction in the current speed limit. This funding will be allocated to local authorities as they come forward with their proposals to implement the lower speed limit and introduce new measures.

 

“Arising from the 2013 Speed Limits Review, the Guidelines on Special Speed Limits are also currently being updated in respect of the new rural speed limit sign and to facilitate greater use of the 30km/h speed limit in housing estates, along with other important updates. It is my intention to issue the updated guidelines in the coming weeks.

 

“I have said before that I see the increased use of a 30km/h speed limit in residential areas as a measure that will help to keep pedestrians, cyclists and children at play safe. I have been determined in my efforts to ensure that local authorities address this issue. The allocation of this funding is a positive development and will help local authorities to respond to the needs of local residents and, in reducing speeds, keep our children safe.”

 

Ends