More Dorset communities invited to shape new 20mph schemes

Dorset residents are seeing safer, calmer streets as the council rolls out its most ambitious programme of 20mph schemes to date with more communities now invited to have their say on the next phase.

Since 2022, Dorset Council has delivered 21 schemes to reduce traffic speeds to 20mph in residential areas and village centres, making streets safer and more pleasant for people to live, walk and cycle. They are introduced following requests from town and parish councils and a legal process known as a Traffic Regulation Order.

The council is now moving into the fourth phase of schemes, which will include seventeen schemes across Dorset. Public consultation for the first tranche is already live, giving residents the chance to comment on proposals in:

• Bridport (multiple ward areas)
• Abbotsbury
• Leigh
• Portesham
• Burton Bradstock
• Warmwell
• Loders
• Maiden Newton
• Broadmayne
• Charminster

A second tranche of schemes will go out to public consultation this autumn, covering:

• Hinton St Mary
• Hilton
• Studland
• Ashmore
• Wool
• Colehill
• Bryanston

All proposed schemes must first be put forward by town or parish councils. They are then assessed and, if suitable, taken through the Traffic Regulation Order process. This legal process includes public consultation to ensure residents, businesses and road users can share their views before any changes are made.

The council recognises that 20mph schemes can generate strong local views. While all 21 schemes delivered so far have progressed with overall local support, there have also been occasions where proposals have not been taken forward due to feedback. Strong opposition in a community may mean a scheme does not proceed. Feedback from residents, businesses and road users is considered alongside safety and traffic data before any final decision is made

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said: “We know how important road safety and quality of life are for our communities. These 20mph schemes are about helping people feel safer where they live, whether that’s children walking to school, older residents getting out and about, or simply making our villages and towns more pleasant places to be.

“This is the most ambitious programme we’ve delivered so far, and it’s only possible because town and parish councils have put forward schemes that reflect what their communities want. I’d encourage anyone who lives or works in these areas to take part in the consultation so we can hear their views, as well as anyone who travels through them. This includes motorists, bus drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, recognising that these roads are used by the wider community”

Residents can find out more about how schemes are developed and take part in the consultations on the Dorset Council website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/review-and-comment-on-a-traffic-regulation-order