Residents in Southend-on-Sea have until 3 June 2026 to share their views on a proposal to introduce 20mph speed limits on several streets in the Thorpe and Southchurch Park area. The Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking feedback on the plan, which affects Kensington Road, Shaftesbury Avenue, Lifstan Way, and Northumberland Crescent.
This latest consultation is part of an ongoing effort to manage traffic speeds that began in January 2022. That initial pilot programme, supported by a £500,000 grant from the Department for Transport, was launched following surveys that used speed data to identify areas with high rates of speeding in Thorpe, Leigh, and West Leigh wards.
Councillor Ron Woodley, the cabinet member for transport, asset management and inward investment, has been a vocal supporter of the project. He argues that reducing speed limits in residential neighbourhoods can significantly improve road safety and lower vehicle emissions for the community.
However, the initiative has faced opposition. Former MP James Duddridge, who previously represented Rochford and Southend East, has publicly criticised the proposals, suggesting there is not enough evidence to prove that 20mph zones effectively reduce accident rates or overall vehicle speeds in residential areas.
In addition to these speed limit proposals, the council also recently completed a consultation process in March 2026 regarding parking changes. These included a new Controlled Parking Zone for the Leigh ward and updates to the restricted parking rules for Leigh-on-Sea High Street.
Residents wishing to view the full details of the current speed limit proposal or submit their comments can do so through the official council portal.
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