Lib Dem Councillor Criticises Labour for Wasteful 20mph Policy Reversal

Cllr. Sam Chapman, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Bassett, addressed the Full Council Meeting, acknowledging the Labour administration's decision to revert Hill Lane and Shirley Road back to 30mph. While he commended Labour for bowing to pressure, he decried the reversal as further evidence of the Council wasting time and money, as it comes just two years after introducing the 20mph limits.

Labour advised that this decision is likely to delay the rollout of 20mph zones on quiet residential streets, a move strongly supported by residents.

"It should never have been implemented in the first place," Cllr. Chapman commented. "Interestingly, for the first time, we received an explanation that the scheme was to save money on additional signage to differentiate 20-30mph zones. That decision now seems short-sighted."

The Southampton Liberal Democrats remain committed to rolling out 20mph zones on quiet residential streets, away from main arterial routes, except near schools, colleges, or other high-risk areas.