Speed limit to be reduced on stretch of road with speed camera

Part of Ringwood Road, between Mountbatten Roundabout and West Howe Roundabout, where there is a speed camera northbound, will reduce from 40mph to 30mph later this spring. 

BCP Council has confirmed the change following a consultation with residents, which saw just four comments in support of the reduction. 

One person blasted the current speed at which vehicles can travel, describing Ringwood Road as being “unpleasant” to walk along due to the noise.

Ringwood Road approaching West Howe Roundabout (Image: Newsquest)

Another person said: “It feels very unsafe to walk along these narrow pavements and does not encourage me to walk or cycle from my house.” 

A council spokeswoman said: “We are in the process of installing the new speed signs, but they will remain covered until the new speed limit comes into effect later this spring.” 

Read more: Plan to reduce speed limit on stretch of A348 Ringwood Road

Following an additional consultation, a further stretch of the same road between Bear Cross Roundabout, past Longham Bridge and ending at Longham mini roundabouts will follow the same speed limit reduction to 30mph, implemented by BCP and Dorset councils. 

Approval was given to a reduction despite several objections to the proposal. 

Longham Bridge, Ringwood Road (Image: Daily Echo)

“What another insane idea from BCP,” what person said, another adding: “Traffic is getting slower and slower in Dorset and while at times 40mph can't be reached due to congestion, it's welcomed when quiet. 

“Traffic barely moves in Bournemouth and with speed reductions it's only going to get worse.” 

Read more: Motorist receives a speeding ticket in Barrack Road driving under the limit

Another objector told the council: “Please spend your money and resources on things that actually matter.” 

The road will be reduced to 30mph (Image: Daily Echo)

The council’s spokeswoman added: “These speed limit reductions on Ringwood Road form part of BCP Council and Dorset Council’s Transforming Cities Fund programme’s sustainable travel improvements from Poole town centre to Ferndown and Wimborne.  

“They aim to improve safety and journeys for all road users along this busy road, including people walking, cycling and wheeling.” 

BCP and Dorset Councils were awarded £79 million by the Department for Transport as part of the Transforming Cities Fund in 2020.

This grant, plus further money from the councils, local business groups and transport companies has given a total programme budget of £102m.