Decision details

To consider the comments received following the formal advertisement of a proposed 30-mph speed limit on Wellhead Drove, Westbury.

I approve that the implementation of the speed limit changes be progressed as advertised.

The decision was published on 10 May 2023 and will come into force on 19 May 2023.

The proposal is intended to improve conditions for vulnerable road users on Wellhead Drove by providing a reduction in speed limit to 30-mph. This is an extension of the existing 30-mph speed limit covering Warminster Road.

This has been identified as a local priority by the Local Highway Footway Improvement Group (LHFIG) and Town Council as a result of resident’s concerns. Wellhead Drove does not have a footway to separate vulnerable users from vehicular traffic and due to the narrow width, there is no opportunity to provide one. As well as being used by residents, Wellhead Drove is part of a popular route for walkers, riders and cyclists.

A 20-mph speed limit cannot be introduced on Wellhead Drove as it would not meet the minimum length criteria set by the Department for Transport.

To:

(i) Progress implementation of the speed limit changes as advertised.

(ii) Abandon the proposals and advertise an amended proposal.

(iii) Abandon the proposal and retain the current speed limit.

Consultation has been undertaken with:

· The elected Wiltshire Council Members through the statutory Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation process

· The elected Westbury Town Council Members for all Wards through the statutory TRO consultation process

· Emergency services through the statutory TRO consultation process

· Members of the public through the statutory TRO consultation process

The proposed TROs were subject to formal consultation between 30 September 2022 and 24 October 2022. The advertisement plan can be seen in Appendix 1. During the consultation period a total of three items of correspondence were received in response to the Council’s proposals. Of the three items received, two expressed support for the Council’s proposals and one objected to the Council’s proposals. A list of respondents can be found in Appendix 2.