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Sevenoaks council and KCC want people to have their say on 20mph zones

11:01, 06 November 2023

People are once again being asked to share their views on the idea of introducing 20mph speed limits.

Sevenoaks council aims to apply the new restrictions across several roads in the town.

Dartford Road in Sevenoaks could be reduced to 20mph. Picture: Google
Dartford Road in Sevenoaks could be reduced to 20mph. Picture: Google

In October last year, Kent County Council (KCC) revealed its plans for the scheme – which would introduce a 20mph zone across most of the area and traffic calming on the A225 Dartford Road.

At the time it asked for residents' opinions on the proposed changes during a consultation period.

Cllr Claire Shea, Mayor of Sevenoaks said: “For several years, there have been discussions on lowering speeds and increasing road safety in our town.

“Local residents in five different areas of Sevenoaks have campaigned for 20mph limits to improve safety for all.

“As a result, KCC led a consultation in 2022 on a 20mph scheme, which has been refined using the feedback.

Sevenoaks Town Mayor, Cllr Claire Shea, believes it would boost active travel in the area
Sevenoaks Town Mayor, Cllr Claire Shea, believes it would boost active travel in the area

“We believe this could give a boost to active travel in Sevenoaks and can be funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy from developers.”

The council says reduced driving speeds will have a number of benefits.

Some of these include better public health and wellbeing, a decrease in casualties and injuries, as well as rush-hour traffic through residential areas.

It is seen as a low-cost initiative, which delivers “instant improvements” for residents, schools and commuters.

A new online survey launched last Wednesday (November 1) and will be open until Thursday, December 14.

The roads in yellow would have their speeds dropped if the proposals are approved. Picture: Sevenoaks Council
The roads in yellow would have their speeds dropped if the proposals are approved. Picture: Sevenoaks Council

In consultation with KCC and members of the Joint Transportation Board, Sevenoaks Town Council has produced a special edition of its regular Town Crier.

It will have details of the 20mph signage-only scheme and how the public can have their say.

You can also visit its website to view the consultation documents and submit your thoughts online.

The Town Crier is delivered to homes in the area but there will be additional copies available at the Bat and Ball Centre, Sevenoaks Town Council offices and the library in Buckhurst Lane.

There will be a large map of the proposals at these locations as well.

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