Decision details

The Local Committee (Surrey Heath) agreed that:

(i)    An advertisement should be published for a Speed Limit Order (SLO) to extend the current 50mph speed limit (and revoke the existing 70mph limit) on the A331 BVR between the M3 junction 4 and A325 Frimley junctions to 100 metres south of the Coleford Bridge Road junction;

(ii)   Any objections to the revocation of the existing 70mph speed limit and resultant introduction of a 50mph speed limit should be considered and resolved by the Area Highways Manager (NW) in consultation with the Divisional Member, Chairman and relevant Hampshire County Council officers and Members, and that this issue only be returned to Committee if any objections prove insurmountable;

(iii)  Once any objections have been considered and resolved, that the order be made and the 50mph limit introduced with the expectation that the current national speed limit of 70mph will be reinstated once it can be assured that nitrogen dioxide levels will remain compliant with these higher traffic speeds

Reasons for Decision:

The Commttee would usually look to the SCC Speed Limit Policy before recommending a change in speed limit.  However, this decision enables the County to react to the Government directive for Air Quality.  A decision to not proceed could mean the County Council is fined.  The Committee therefore agreed the decision to proceed but noted that talks would continue on air quality and enforcement of any speed limit.