A NEW 20mph speed limit is set to be put in place in Newchurch.

Residents in Newchurch have long campaigned for a 20mph speed limit through the centre of the village, in a bid to tackle speeding drivers and increasing volumes of traffic.

The local authority ­— working in close partnership with Newchurch Parish Council, Island Roads and the local ward members ­— have now agreed to a series of new speed restrictions throughout the parish to improve road safety.

“We have all worked together to bring the speed down through Newchurch from 30mph to 20mph, which will hopefully bring many benefits," said Cllr Clare Mosdell.

“It has been a huge piece of work, but these measures will reduce risks for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorists alike.”

Under the new traffic regulation order (TRO), the largest area subject to change will be from Langbridge through to Branstone Cross, including Newchurch High Street.

Some sections will see new 30mph and 20mph speed limits, as well as the introduction of a weight restriction.

There will also be changes around the arms of Whitely Bank roundabout and between Apse Heath roundabout and Branstone Cross.

The TRO implementation works are expected to start in August.

Councillor Mosdell said a key consideration was that any scheme should not impact on Bartletts Service Station, based at Langbridge Business Centre.

“The parish council and myself wanted to make sure Bartletts could still run a successful business, so the TRO allows for a certain number of lorry movements each day,” said Cllr Mosdell.

Paul Hendy, a partner in Bartletts, said, "The roads in and around Newchurch are narrow, and there are sections with no pavement meaning pedestrians are forced to walk in the road which can be dangerous, particularly at night."

Cllr Ian Ward, the Isle of Wight Council’s cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, said: “Speed is relative to the conditions of the road, and you only have to look at these roads to see 30mph is inappropriate.

“The TRO took time to get agreed, but we all worked together to get the best outcome.”

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