Village call for 30mph speed limit

A BID to reduce the speed limit through a village street has moved a step closer.

People in Washington have been campaigning for years for a 30mph limit and called on the county council for action three years ago.

Last week, Chanctonbury County Local Commitee added its support for the scheme and made it a top priority for action.

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Washington parish councillor David Whyberd told the committee, meeting at the Steyning Centre last Wednesday, there was a 50mph limit on the A283 but just as drivers came across the ‘welcome to the village’ sign, the speed went up to the 60mph national speed limit.

“We are right on the South Downs Way, so we get a lot of walkers heading up to the Downs and cyclists,” he added. “We would like a 30mph speed limit.”

Speed loops were put down last year and results were discussed at a meeting between parish councillors and West Sussex County Council last month.

Cllr Philip Circus, who represents the Storrington division, said: “I am perfectly convinced that this is thoroughly justifiable, from Storrington Road right down to Stocks Mead.

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“I think average speeds can be very misleading, because you can have an average speed that nobody does.

“I thoroughly support it and hope we can move ahead with it as soon as possible.”

Cllr Lionel Barnard added: “It is well overdue.”

The 30mph speed limit was added as a top priority in the Traffic Regulation Order schedule, meaning it should be moved forward within the next year or so.