Wanstead Village and Wanstead Park Labour candidates pledge support for 20s Plenty initiative

Wanstead Labour candidates have pledged support for the excellent 20s Plenty initiative that was launched at a meeting at Wanstead library last night.

The 20s Plenty initiative is something that has taken off in popularity around the country with over 50 towns and boroughs now having such speed limits. Some 15 London boroughs have the limit.

Jeremy Leach, the London campaign co-ordinator for 20s Plenty, told how for every 1% reduction in speed there is a 6% cut in casualties on the roads.

The group, Living Streets, are keen supporters of the initiative, encouraging people to get out more to exercise and bring the streets to life.

Jeremy highlighted how some of the pedestrianisation measures taken in Waltham Forest had brought the streets back to life. He also highlighted how 39.2% of children at year six age in Redbridge are obese or overweight.

All of these factors add to the attractiveness of the 20s Plenty initiative.  

Labour Village candidates are asking Redbridge Council to look favourably on calls from residents around Wanstead who want limits to be put in place on their roads. The areas around schools should receive special consideration.

“What’s not to like, the 20 mph speed limit makes the roads safer and the air cleaner for those who live in the local area,” said Paul Donovan, Labour candidate for Wanstead Village. “The 20s Plenty initiative is a simple way to counter this threat to life. It also helps combat pollution, which is a major concern of people in Wanstead.”

Fellow candidate, Daniel Morgan-Thomas, said: “We as candidates are keen to support any initiative that will make the streets safer for local residents.

“Driving fast in built up areas puts lives at risk. It is reckless and there have been far too many lives lost due to excess speed."

Labour candidate, Jo Blackman, said: “We as candidates wholeheartedly support the initiative in Wanstead and would encourage the council to consult and introduce the measures as quickly as possible where demand warrants.”

Wanstead Labour Councillor and Candidate for Wanstead Park, Cllr Paul Merry, said: "I’m in favour of 20mph zones in residential areas as adopted across Hackney, Waltham Forest, Newham and in other parts of London - subject to consultation with residents prior to implementation. I’ve already had positive discussions with Cllr John Howard, the Cabinet Member responsible for roads and transport in the borough"

Rod King, MBE, founder and campaign director for 20s Plenty for Us, said: “A national 20mph limit is cost effective. It reduces casualties, improves air quality and raises exercise levels.”

- reported Wanstead and Woodford and Ilford Recorders - "Speed limit campaign" - 1/2/2018