Public consultation initiated on A-road speed limit reduction

Public feedback is currently being gathered regarding proposals to lower the speed limit on specific sections of a significant road traversing Cambridgeshire and Norfolk, citing safety concerns. National Highways intends to decrease the speed limit on single carriageway portions of the A47 from 60mph to 50mph. This initiative is prompted by the frequency of accidents resulting in injuries or serious harm. Affected areas would encompass the segment connecting Peterborough and King’s Lynn, as well as the well-known Acle Straight situated between Norwich and Great Yarmouth. A spokesperson for National Highways stated, “The proposals aim to improve road safety for all road users by introducing reduced speed limits, which we anticipate will reduce the frequency and severity of collisions.” Furthermore, a 50mph limit is under consideration for the A47 in Norfolk, specifically between Necton and Dereham. A 40mph limit has also been proposed for the Thorney Toll segment, located between Peterborough and Wisbech. Upon the unveiling of these plans in September, the A47 Alliance, an organization comprising councillors and businesses, declared its ongoing commitment to advocating for the dual carriageway conversion of the road’s single sections, characterizing the proposed speed limit changes as the “cheaper option.” The relevant consultation materials can be accessed at local libraries within the impacted regions or directly through National Highways until December 13. Follow East of England news on X, Instagram and Facebook: BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks, BBC Cambridgeshire, BBC Essex, BBC Norfolk, BBC Northamptonshire or BBC Suffolk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.