A TOWN is one step closer to having more 20mph speed limits after a consultation found respondents were in favour. 

Lytchett Minster and Upton Town Council asked for its residents’ views on dropping the 30mph speed limit down in Sandy Lane and associated roads back in August. 

The residential roads included in the proposals are Yarrell’s Lane, Moorland Way, Sea View Road, Watery Lane and Policeman’s Lane. 

And a new pedestrian crossing was also consulted on in Dorchester Road, Lytchett Minster, just near St Peter's Finger pub. 

The results found that 62 per cent of 263 responses were in favour of reduced speed limit in Upton and 79 per cent of 154 responses were in favour of a new pedestrian crossing in Lytchett Minster. 

Lytchett Minster and Upton Town Council said: “Thank you to all those who responded to the two recent public consultation exercises on proposals to make our roads safer in the town. 

“The response has been very positive.” 

It added: “As the highways authority, the final decision is with Dorset Council. We will keep residents updated.” 

According to the consultation, those against the 20mph speed limits said it was “unnecessary” because existing traffic conditions already regulate speeds. 

It added: “They believe that the current 30 mph limit is sufficient and reducing it could lead to frustration and congestion. 

“Others fear that lower speed limits might increase air pollution because cars would need to operate in lower gears.” 

And those in favour believe that a lower speed limit would “reduce noise, vibrations and the risk to wildlife”. 

On the pedestrian crossing, the consultation said: “While most are in favour of the crossing, a few feel that the crossing may not solve the underlying issues, such as speeding or bad parking. 

“Some express concerns about noise from traffic lights or the potential for increased congestion.” 

A Dorset Council spokeswoman said “The parish council has this week submitted a request to us for a pedestrian crossing in the village of Lytchett Minster. 

“The parish council is also in the process of applying for a 20mph speed limit reduction for the area around the schools including Sandy Lane, Moorland Way and Sea View Road in Upton.   

“Both requests will be considered against our policies and if supported will be funded by Dorset Council”.