GMB seek member feedback on TfL proposals to lower speed limit to 20mph in Congestion Charge Zones

GMB seek member feedback on TfL proposals to introduce lower speed limits on all roads in the Congestion Charge Zone by May next year

A suitable balance may be needed, however we will listen to our members before responding on their behalf, says GMB London

GMB will seek feedback from members on TfL’s proposal to make all of its roads within the Congestion Charge Zone 20mph from next year. The move is part of the Mayor’s Vision Zero commitment to eliminate death and serious injury on London’s roads

Statistics from TfL say a person hit at 30mph is five times more likely to die than someone hit at 20mph.

TfL also plans to raise the height of pedestrian crossings in seven high-risk locations, including near the busy Embankment and Tower Hill Tube stations and in areas with a high number of pedestrians.

TfL have today (5 May) launched a consultation on the proposals.

Steve Garelick, GMB Regional Organiser said:

“GMB will ask for members involved in transport to look at these proposals as the number of people being killed on London’s streets is unacceptable.

“The statistics clearly show that lower speeds save lives. Reducing speed limits in central London, may save lives each year but have to be looked at in tandem with the needs of those reliant on transport for their job or those who are reliant on transport by cars, taxis and light and heavy goods vehicles for deliveries.

“Late night traffic as an example is somewhat different from day time and delivery networks are reliant on timed delivery.

 “A suitable balance may be needed, however we will listen to our members before responding on their behalf.”

ENDS

Contact: Steve Garelick 07967 763980 or GMB London Press Office 07970 114762

Image: Alain Rouiller on Flickr