Six more 20mph zones for Devon

But 105 areas applied

Lower speed limits are being introduced in six more parts of Devon.

Black Torrington, Bridgerule and Dolton in Torridge, Cockwood and Dawlish in Teignbridge and Uffculme in Mid Devon will all have new 20 mph schemes after being chosen by Devon County Council.

They all scored highest on a priority system, first implemented two years ago as a way of prioritising the large number of requests the county council receives for 20 mph zones.

It takes into account factors such as average speeds at key locations, the number of vulnerable road users, the area’s speed related collision history, as well the level of support for a 20 mph scheme.

A total of 57 ‘expressions of interest’ were received from local communities this year. However, with £150,000 allocated towards the project and each costing around £25,000, the council can only afford six.

Councillor Stuart Hughes (Conservative, Sidmouth), cabinet member for highways, said: “Unfortunately we can’t deliver schemes in every community that has requested one, but by identifying the most in need it ensures that our limited resources are focused where there will be of the greatest benefit.

“I’m delighted that initial design work on these six schemes can now progress, and they will be subject to a safety audit, and we will work in partnership with the local elected member before they are advertised.

“We hope to be able to continue to roll out the 20 mph speed limits that are desired by our communities each year.

“In doing so it helps communities feel safer and creates the conditions for increased active travel by making walking and cycling safer and easier.”

The announcement comes after four areas out of 105 were chosen last year - selected parts of Tiverton and Winkleigh, and all the roads in Atherington (North Devon) and Ashburton.

However, opposition leader Julian Brazil (Lib Dem, Kingsbridge) is critical of the slow roll-out of lower speed limits.

Speaking at a cabinet meeting last week, he said: “Why is it that Cornwall will be implementing 20 mph zones across the county within a few years, and yet this council is struggling to do six [out of] over 150 this next year and yet Cornwall can do it all?

“Why are we so bad in Devon when it comes to sticking up for our communities and doing what they want?”

Speaking in December, Cllr Hughes said the council was open to funding more schemes should extra money be found and invited parish councils to get involved "if they would like to pay for some of the schemes".