By Rashleigh MacFarlane

The first 20 mph speed zones in Cornwall have contributed to a dramatic fall in the numbers of traffic accidents and casualties, according to new data.

The first areas were Camelford, and Falmouth and Penryn, in 2022/23.  Other parts of Cornwall followed, with most areas due to see 20 mph zones rolled out before the end of next year.

Monitoring of speeds and analysis of traffic accident statistics in the initial areas have now found that in Camelford, the 20 mph speed limits have contributed to a 57% fall in the number of collisions.  This in turn has resulted in a 42% reduction in the number of casualties.

In Falmouth and Penryn, collisions have fallen by 17% and casualties by 21%.

The 20 mph zones were introduced only after public consultation, with most residents keen to see traffic slow outside their homes.  The only exception was St Austell, where 50% objected to the new speed limit.

Detailed analysis of traffic speeds in the Cornwall Gateway area, Camborne, Pool and Redruth, Truro and Roseland, Hayle and St Ives, West Penwith and China Clay communities, where the 20 mph limit has been introduced, has found that in all cases, motorists are slowing down.

Collision data is still being analysed but early indications are that the number of accidents is also reducing.

The latest data is due to be presented to a Cornwall Council scrutiny committee next week with a recommendation that the 20 mph programme should continue.