Evidence shows that lower speeds result in fewer collisions and a reduced severity of injuries.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a 20mph speed limit being introduced?
Evidence shows that lower speeds result in fewer collisions and a reduced severity of injuries.
Pedestrians are five times more likely to be killed if hit by a vehicle driven at 30mph
compared to 20mph.
As well as the safety benefits, 20mph zones improve air quality, reduce noise pollution and
can result in healthier lifestyles by encouraging more walking and cycling in communities.
Roads will be safer and shared more equally between different road users.
Who made the decision?
The Welsh Government passed a law in 2022 to introduce 20mph as the default speed limit.
Councils have not made the decision and cannot change the decision, but they are
implementing the changes by amending existing signage and introducing new signage.
You can find out more about the reasons behind the Welsh Government 20mph law at their
website here: Introducing 20mph speed limits: frequently asked questions
When do the changes start?
The Welsh Government says that the changeover from 30mph to 20mph will take place on 17
September, 2023.
What do I need to do?
You can participate in the consultation on the proposed exemptions in Swansea to the 20mph
limit. Please see the next FAQ for more information.
When the rules come in, you will need to observe the new speed limits.
Where will the exceptions to the 20mph limit be in Swansea?
There are a number of roads in Swansea that are currently set to a speed limit of 30mph
which are intended to remain at that limit after September 17. Among them are 30mph
sections of arterial roads like Fabian Way, Oystermouth Road and Carmarthen Road.
Details of the roads proposed to remain at 30mph throughout Wales can be viewed on the
link - https://datamap.gov.wales/maps/roads-affected-by-changes-to-the-speed-limit-on-re/view#/
Draft traffic regulation orders (TROs) naming roads in Swansea which could be potentially
exempt from the 20mph regulations have been published for public consultation. Residents,
businesses and other organisations can see the information at this link:
Traffic Regulation Order search - Swansea
Comments on the proposals should be directed to The Chief Legal Officer Civic Centre
Oystermouth Road Swansea SA1 3SN or via E-mail at legal.trafficnotices@swansea.gov.uk
before the closing date on 26 July 2023.
You can find out more about the rules set out by the Welsh Government about exceptions
which councils in Wales can apply to maintain 30mph roads at their current limit at this link:
Setting local speed limits | GOV.WALES
I already live in a 20mph area. Will that change?
No. If you already live in one of these areas like Sandfields, nothing will change after
September 17.
Who is paying for the changes? Is it coming from my council tax?
In Swansea the cost of implementing the change is expected to be in the region of £3m. The
Welsh Government has stated it will fully-fund the work in Swansea, so none of the cost will
come from the council tax. It is important to note that the grant for this work is ring-fenced
for implementing the Welsh Government’s 20mph law. It cannot be spent on any other road
projects or activity.
Is there more information on the 20mph rules?
Yes, the Welsh Government has a web page here, which it will update from time to time
between now and September 2023: Introducing 20mph speed limits: Introducing 20mph speed limits: frequently asked questions | GOV.WALES
Who will be responsible for enforcement of the new 20mph rules?
As with all speed enforcement issues, Go Safe Wales will be responsible for enforcing the
rules.
As always, any money generated from the proceeds of fines or prosecutions goes to the
Treasury. None of the proceeds of speeding fines goes to Swansea Council or any other local
authority.
You can find out more about Go Safe's work - GoSafe | Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership