NEW 20mph speed limit zones in Broadstone have been signed off.

BCP Council chiefs carried out an initial consultation on the move back in early 2021 and just shy of two years on the proposals have now been implemented.

A statutory consultation took place in October and November 2021, with a mixed response from residents.

However, sustainability and transport portfolio holder Cllr Mike Greene made a decision to implement the new restrictions.

A report outlining this decision said: “The scheme aligns with the council’s Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP) aims and objectives.

The planned improvements would support children and parents/guardians travelling to and from schools by making it easier and safer for people to travel on foot, scooter and by bicycle; reducing the need to travel by car.

“Encouraging more sustainable forms of travel also contributes towards reducing noise, congestion and pollution in the area.

“In addition, the extension of the 20mph zone forms an integral part of the wider improvement scheme delivered in 2019 along Dunyeats Road which sought to address safety issues and concerns.”

Bournemouth Echo:

The report said no significant negative impacts had been identified, such as access to premises, amenities and use of the Dunyeats Road and Lower Blandford Road by public service vehicles.

The new 20mph limit is being introduced in Ashwood Drive, Laurel Drive, Laurel Gardens, Tudor Road, Westheath Road, Ridgeway, Kirkway, Macualay Road, Story Lane, Grange Road, Heysham Road and Selby Close, most of Dunyeats Road, including past Broadstone Middle and Broadstone First schools, and sections of Lower Golf Links Road, Upper Golf Links Road, York Road, and Lower Blandford Road.

The decision by Cllr Greene also includes new waiting restrictions in parts of Ashwood Drive, Dunyeats Road and Upper Golf Links Road.

Explaining the benefits of the changes, the report said: “The main objective of the highway scheme is to enhance the area for walking and cycling by providing a lower speed environment, new/enhanced controlled crossings and suitable footways.

“By providing safe and convenient walking and cycling infrastructure and more people will have more choice over how they travel, and the transport network will be more inclusive.”