Liverpool’s speed reduction initiative, The 20 Effect, has partnered with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
A special logo is to being carried on up to nine of Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s appliances, highlighting the 20 effect and reminding drivers that the majority of residential streets in Liverpool will have the new reduced speed limit implemented by 2015.
Currently, 31% of residential roads in Liverpool have a 20mph speed limit, and proposals are being put forward to increase that to 70% over the next three years. Over 90% of residents who have responded to the consultation so far are in favour of the plans and implementation of the first area is beginning shortly.
The logo, which can be seen on one of the lockers on both sides of the appliance, has been launched to mark National Road Safety Week. It has been paid for by Liverpool PCT and Liverpool City Council
Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Watch Manager, John Cousins, said: “This is about helping to keep children safe on our roads in Liverpool. We, as a Service, work towards cutting down injuries on the roads by carrying out work with young people and young drivers across Merseyside. We rescue more people from road traffic collisions than we do from house fires and road safety is a key focus for us. We fully support initiatives, such as the 20 effect, that aim to help reduce the number of those injured on our roads.”
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Councillor Tim Moore, said: “I’m delighted that Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service are on board for this important campaign. The 20 Effect aims to change the behaviour of drivers and help make our roads safer for everyone, and the branded appliances will be a highly visible, effective way of spreading the message far-and-wide.”
Dr Paula Grey, Director of Public Health for Liverpool added “This is a major step forward in improving road safety in Liverpool. Slowing down our residential streets to 20mph and changing the speed culture in the city will save lives and reduce the number of road collisions affecting some of our most vulnerable residents. Making our roads safer will also mean people will feel encouraged to walk and cycle leading to a healthier population.”
The 20 Effect campaign aims to influence safer driving and heighten awareness for 20mph limits in residential areas. The campaign is run in partnership by Liverpool City Council and Liverpool Primary Care Trust.
The proposed increase from 31% to 70% of roads going to 20mph could prevent at least 54 collisions every year and save £5.2m in costs associated with these incidents.
