'COMPULSORY 20mph traffic-calming zones may be introduced across cities and towns in Scotland following the success of a trial that improved road safety by cutting car speeds in residential areas.
The pilot scheme was tested on 25 miles of streets on the south side of Edinburgh last year, and initial results show there were fewer accidents in the trial area and better conditions for walkers and cyclists.
Edinburgh council is now considering extending 20mph zones to all residential and shopping streets and even some main roads, which would be the first scheme of its type in the country.
Transport Scotland, the government’s transport agency, said once the trial had been fully evaluated it would advise other councils on how to replicate Edinburgh’s success.
However, though safety experts said compulsory 20mph zones were vital in cutting casualties and encouraging commuters to cycle, motoring groups said introducing them on too wide a scale could be counter-productive, especially if main roads were included.
The campaign to reduce speeds follows significant improvements in the safety of motorists and passengers due to better vehicle and road design. Consultants now warn the number of pedestrians and cyclists killed or seriously injured will overtake the casualty toll for those in cars within a few years.'
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