Sponsored by
Leeds estate traffic cut to 20mph COMMENT ON THIS STORY
HIGHWAYS chiefs have cut the speed limit on a Leeds estate which is one of the most densely populated areas in Europe.
The top speed has been cut from 30mph to 20mph in the St Wilfrid's area of Gipton after it was identified as an accident blackspot.
A total of 59 accidents have been reported in the area since 2003.
Campaigners have welcomed the decision but warn the new measures are not widespread enough.
They believe the new limit should be imposed across the whole of Gipton.
The St Wilfrid's area was on the council's priority list for a 20mph speed limit because of the number of road accidents involving pedestrians and the number of schools in the area.
Busy
The area is bordered by Woodlands, Oakwood and Hovingham primary schools, with St Augustine's at its centre.
Speed cushions and raised junctions form part of the scheme and five pedestrian crossings are proposed, although these have still to be approved.
Coun Alan Taylor (Lib Dem, Gipton and Harehills) said: "I have been anxious to see traffic measures in this part of my ward for some time.
"This is one of the most densely populated areas in Europe and contains four primary schools.I hope that the zone and the pedestrian crossings will be put in place as soon as possible."
Stephen Mills, community champion for Gipton Approach, said: "I'm delighted that action has been taken in the particular area of Gipton.
"It's a positive step but I think it should be extended to cover the whole area."
Mr Mills was responsible for getting Gipton Approach reduced from a dual to a single carriageway after identifying it as a danger to pedestrians from speeding drivers.
He said: "There are so many primary schools on the estate and youngsters of all nationalities coming here these days that they are not familiar with the roads."
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Leeds
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: East
