The Director of Technical Services reported upon the methodology proposed to undertake the mandatory review of existing speed limits on all A, B and C roads across Wirral and he reported also upon how existing Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO's) relating to waiting restrictions would be assessed and how necessary alterations would be implemented. He commented that the study was based upon the Department for Transport (DfT) circular 1/06 and Traffic Advisory leaflet 2/06 which set out guidance on the setting of local speeds limits. The key objectives of the document were to provide guidance on the review of existing speed limits and their suitability with regard to current accident rates, levels of development, road users and quality of life for local communities and the main driver was to improve road safety.

Resolved –

(1)  That the report be noted.

(2)  That the methodology to be adopted and in particular the key principles proposed as the means for reviewing existing speed limits and Traffic Regulation Orders across the Borough, be endorsed.

The Director of Technical Services identified key elements of necessary review work on speed limits and Traffic Regulation Orders to be undertaken in the next two years for the Council, as local Highway Authority, to comply with statutory requirements.

His report sought Cabinet’s approval to engage consultants via the existing Consultancy Framework in order to complete the review within the set timescale and the cost of this work would be met from Local Transport Plan 2008-2011 capital allocations.

This was a key decision included within the Forward Plan.

Resolved - That

(1)  the statutory requirement to review speed limits on all A and B classified roads by 2011 be noted;

(2)  the Director of Technical Services be authorised to engage consultants from the Consultancy Framework to undertake a review of all speed limits and Traffic Regulation Orders on all A, B and C class roads as suggested in this report;

(3)  funding from the LTP Capital Programme 2008-2011 be endorsed as follows:

  £225,000 in 2009/10

  £155,000 in 2010/11

(4)  the Director of Technical Services to provide further reports as necessary to update Cabinet on the progress of this Review.