Formby Labour Councillor Nina Killen backs 20mph speed restriction plan

Formby Labour Councillor Nina Killen said she is backing a 20mph restriction on some roads in Formby because "when it comes to road safety, every mile-per-hour counts".

The plans would see the north eastern part of the town with the new speed restriction - north of Piercefield Road, Ryeground Lane and Southport Road; and east of the railway line.

Sefton's proposals were given a warm welcome by a large proportion of consulted residents.

A total of 1,581 households in the affected area of Formby were consulted. Forty-two per cent of households responded to the consultation - 71% of whom were in favour of a 20mph restriction.

Formby councillors will this week vote on whether to introduce the new speed restrictions when they meet at the area committee.

Cllr Killen said she was backing the plans.

Cllr Killen said: "In this type of residential area, there really is no need to do any more than 20mph. We have a number of primary schools in this part of Formby and restricting traffic speed will help to save lives and keep our roads safer for not just our children, but also older people in our community.

"Studies show that every mile-per-hour over 20mph dramatically increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision. In areas of Portsmouth where 20mph zones have been introduced, there have been 22% fewer casualties.

"There are also proven improvements in air quality and pollution. Which is obviously beneficial for the whole community.


"There was an excellent return rate for the consultation, which was way higher than the average. With 71% of those people responding positively to the proposals, this is something which clearly has the support of people who live here.

"For these reasons I will be backing the proposals."

Cllr Killen, who has three young children, said "20's plenty for this part of Formby".

Cllr Killen said: "I live in this area. I also drive. I don't know why we would oppose a 20mph limit.

"Very often, when I am out and about with the children, it can be a real struggle to get across certain roads because of the speed of the traffic.

"But the studies show that people who travel at 20mph in speed restricted areas reach their destination no more than 40 seconds later because the flow of traffic is improved.

"It is better to arrive 40 seconds later than risk seriously injuring a child. It's a small price to pay."