Police can now start enforcing new speed limit in Felpham — but they need help from residents

Following the approval of a new traffic regulation order (TRO) last year, 20mph speed limit signs have been put in place across the entire parish apart from main roads, private roads and those playing a more significant role in the network.

According to West Sussex County Council, the last phase of traffic-calming work has now finished and the legal process was completed today (Monday, March 9) meaning the speed limits can be enforced by the police, ‘should the need arise’.

One of the main supporters of the proposal was Paul English, district councillor for Felpham. He said: “It’s been a long time coming. The first consultation started ten years ago.

“If all residents stick to 20mph, it will make the roads safer. All it takes is for one car to obey the limit and all the cars behind will do the same.

“It’s no good saying the police won’t enforce it as they will if it’s reported to them by residents. They will not monitor it but will turn up and catch people so it’s down to the residents to ensure our streets are safer. Only the residents can make it work.”

The proposal comprises the introduction of a village wide 20mph limit, two pairs of speed cushions to help moderate speeds where they are highest in Summerley Lane and a short section of double yellow lines in Felpham Way. 

The cost of implementation was an estimated £50,000 and was funded from developer contributions.

A county council spokesperson said: “The 20mph speed limit signs have been in place for two or three months now. Nationally, 20mph limits are expected to be self-enforcing and we would expect drivers to have reduced their speeds since the signage was installed.

“Studies elsewhere have shown that average speeds are reduced. The village-wide, 20mph scheme was requested by Felpham Parish Council and ratified by the County Local Committee.”

Councillor English said ‘countless opinions’ were received from residents following ‘consultation after consultation’.

He added: “A lot of people criticised it saying it’s a waste of money but this is not coming from tax payers’ money. People in Felpham are not paying anything.

“This is road mitigation funding which cannot be used for anything else.

“Half of the money was given for the works at Comet Corner, shared with Middleton. They also built a new roundabout at Summerley Lane which has been a resounding success.

“It works. Everyone is respectful and let each other go. There has only been one accident there.

“It’s a different type of roundabout and does what it says.”