A ‘CLEAR risk’ to pedestrians has been dismissed by Warwickshire County Council (WCC), amid calls to reduce the 60mph speed limit on a main road which has become an increasingly popular walking route.
An Eden Park resident believes the speed limit on the northern stretch of Leicester Road should be reduced due to expanding housing and industry between the Kipling Roundabout and the M6, and the opening of Rugby Free Primary School at Central Park.
John Greer said: “It is clear to me that a simple reduction in the speed limit from 60mph to 40mph would be a low cost step to greatly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists on Leicester Road, especially as the footpath is now more frequently used by young children.”
His thoughts have been echoed by Rugby MP Mark Pawsey, who called on WCC to reconsider their position that the speed limit is suitable.
He said: “I am disappointed WCC do not share the concerns of local residents.
“With a relatively narrow footpath and no traffic barriers around, there is a clear risk for pedestrians on Leicester Road.
“The character of the Leicester Road has changed in recent years thanks to development and the previous speed limit of 60mph is no longer appropriate.
“I am also extremely concerned that Warwickshire County Council’s policy is to not make any adjustments to speed limits until incidents have occurred, rather than seeking to take preventative measures in areas where there is a clear risk of harm.”
But a spokeswoman for Warwickshire County Council said: “With Leicester Road being the main link between Rugby and the M6, and the section in question being a hedge-lined dual carriageway, the existing 60mph speed limit is appropriate.
“Warwickshire County Council takes road safety very seriously and all injury accidents recorded by Warwickshire Police are collated.
“The data for the Leicester Road between the Kipling Roundabout and Brownsover Lane Roundabout records one slight shunt collision within the last three years.”
