Roads and Highways - Speed Limits

Barnsley Council have the authority to place speed limits on roads where a significant proportion of vehicles travel at an inappropriate speed and could present a danger to road users, in accordance with guidance from the Department of Transport.

Speed limits aim to get all traffic moving at a fairly consistent speed and should not be seen as a target speed at which to drive in all circumstances.

The national speed limit for single carriageway roads is 60 mph.  On dual carriageway roads (including motorways) a 70 mph limit for cars is used.  Urban roads with street lighting are normally subject to a 30 mph limit, however, this may differ due to the local environment and traffic patterns.  On the outskirts of urban areas and on more rural roads a 50 mph limit is mainly used.

Some vehicles have a speed restriction imposed on them lower than the maximum speed signed on the highway, for example, HGVs cannot exceed 40 mph on single carriageway roads (please refer to the Highway Code).

When someone notifies the Council that they consider a speed limit is inappropriate consultations will take place with South Yorkshire Police.  If the Police also have concerns, speed checks will be arranged and collision records for that particular road will be checked.  This information will then be assessed in accordance with current Department for Transport guildance to determine whether the limit is appropriate, requires amendment or requires measures to ensure compliance.

The minimum length for a speed limit is normally 600 metres.

Where a contractor wants to work within the highway the Council may consider that a temporary speed limit should be imposed to protect the workforce and road users. Again guidance will be followed in determining this and a minimum of 4 weeks notice in advance of the works starting is required.

When street lighting is provided on a road for the first time the default limit is 30 mph and signs to that effect will be erected at the terminal point (the first street light). Repeater signs are not permitted within 30 mph speed limits. Street lights signify a 30 mph limit unless signs indicate otherwise (please refer to the Highway Code).

Changing a speed limit is done by means of a Traffic Regulation Order. This takes time to process, requires consultation with the Police and advertising the proposal to the public. During the advertisement period objections can be submitted to the Council for consideration.

The Council itself can initiate speed limits where it considers this necessary for its own policies, for example, 20 mph zones in residential areas.

To request an assessment for a new speed limit please contact the Council's Strategic Highway Maintenance Service:

• by clicking the following link Request an Assessment for a New Speed Limit;
• by telephoning 01226 773555;
• by emailing roads@barnsley.gov.uk; or
• by writing to Barnsley MBC, Strategic Highway Maintenance, PO Box 601, Barnsley, S70 9FA.

Please ensure that you give as much information as possible including the street name, locality and details of your enquiry.

Legislation

Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984