A 20mph zone is to come into force in and around Anglesea Road, Ipswich, after proposals for the scheme won the backing of highways chiefs.
The zone has been given the go-ahead despite a letter sent to residents by the Conservative Party in Ipswich shortly before May’s local elections claiming the limit had already been approved.
At the time, Suffolk Highways denied approval had been given because of an “insufficient level of response to the formal consultation” on the proposal.
There had been 47 responses received to the Traffic Regulation Order of which only 51% were positive. The council said it would hope for a figure closer to 960 responses to be more confident of gauging local opinion.
However, the plans have been given the go ahead with the county council reviewing its processes for future schemes.
Mary Evans, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for highways, transport and rural affairs, said: “I am delighted that we’ve been able to support councillor Chris Chambers, councillor Inga Lockington and the residents of the Anglesea Road area with the approval of their 20mph signage scheme.
“We were able to approve the order following clarification from the county councillors of the significant local support.
“Suffolk Highways is currently reviewing speed limit policies, and the processes supporting them to ensure future applications are dealt with more efficiently.”
Mr Chambers, St Margaret’s and Westgate councillor, said: “I am pleased to confirm to residents of Anglesea Road and the surrounding roads, the proposed 20mph zone has been signed off by the Suffolk Highways department.
“During my election campaign it became clear that this scheme had the passionate support of residents.
“I am pleased that it has now been given the green light and I am sure local residents will welcome the news.
“I would like to thank councillor Lockington and other councillors from all parties who have all worked hard on the issue since it was initially discussed.
Colin Kreidewolf, of Ipswich Borough Council, said: “I am just really pleased it is going ahead.
“It will be interesting to see how they are going to fund it.
“We will be looking at other 20mph zones in other areas.”
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