Moray residents have their say on 20mph speed limit reduction

As new 20mph signs are installed at four locations in Moray this week, residents have been having their say on the speed limit reduction.

The work is being carried out by Amey on the A95 at Aberlour and Craigellachie, and on the A96 at Keith and Elgin.

Moray Council has said there is no confirmed date for the introduction of 20mph zones across the region and residents can still take part in its consultation about it.

The initial story about the work to install the signs has seen debate regarding the reduction in speed limit from 30mph to 20mph in Moray.

In the comments section of the Northern Scot Facebook page Danny McIntosh said: “Many towns and villages around the NE [north-east] already have these 20mph limits which like the old 30mph limits is mostly ignored.”

Jessie Wood said: “Another waste of money, what was wrong with 30mph? 20mph is dead slow stop.”

Alistair Easthope said: “If it needs a 20mph limit, it needs a bypass.”

Wendy Middleton said: “It's going to cause more frustration, bad enough traffic lights and road works.”

In the comments section of the Grampian Online Facebook page Gordon Smith said: “I understand the intention behind reducing speed limits, but isn't there a risk of increased air pollution due to slower traffic and more congestion?”

Margery Swinton said: “Anything rather than update the road for the twenty first century.”

Paul Roberts said: “Just proves that all towns along the A96 need a bypass.”

An Amey spokesperson said: “The new signage will help deliver Transport Scotland's National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy, which aims to reduce road collisions and their severity by lowering speed limits to 20mph in appropriate urban areas by the end of 2025.

“The 20mph speed limits on the A95 and A96 trunk roads will be made active at a future, to be confirmed date.”

A Moray Council spokesperson said: “The installation of signage on the A95 and A96 is a matter for the trunk roads operator, Amey.

“There is no confirmed date for the introduction of 20mph zones across Moray as part of the national framework roll-out.

“Residents can still take part in the consultation currently underway in Moray about the roll-out of 20mph speed limits in built-up areas.”