Harwell - proposed 20mph speed limit zone (Re-consultation)

We're asking for your views on the proposal to introduce a 20mph speed limit zone on various roads within Harwell, replacing the existing 30mph speed limit as necessary. The proposals, which have been put forward as part/under funding support for the Great Western Park improvement works, will see a reduction of the existing 30mph speed limit to 20mph on roads in the centre of Harwell.

These proposals mirror those put forward in the consultation carried out in December 2021 (details here), which were subsequently approved by the Cabinet Member for Highway Management in February 2022 (see item no.19/22 here). They are being repeated due to the subsequent expiration of the statutory two-year period in which to implement the proposals as originally advertised.

In order to help achieve compliance with the new lower speed limit, it has also been proposed (separate consultation here) to introduce various traffic calming measures within the zone.

Moreover, the proposals align with the ambition & policy of Oxfordshire County Council to make local built environments safer and more attractive places to walk and cycle. To enable this, 20mph speed restrictions are being used to help promote alternative modes of transport for local travel.

Have your say.

Please read the detailed information provided on this consultation and take the time to complete the survey as your views and opinions matter. Your response should be completed and returned by 5pm on Friday 23 February 2024.

Whilst we will endeavor to answer simple queries during the course of the consultation, any more complex questions/issues will be appraised and dealt with as part of consultation process.

What happens next?

The County Council will review the responses and if necessary (i.e. if objections are received) prepare a report to be presented to the Cabinet Member for Highway Management at a meeting scheduled for later in 2024. This will be public meeting at which members of the public may apply to speak. The agenda and reports for meetings will be made available on the Oxfordshire County Council web site about a week before the meeting (please note that occasionally it is necessary to defer reports to a later meeting, and it is therefore advisable to check the agenda ahead of attending a meeting). The Forward Plan of decisions meetings can be viewed here.