Disruption on M4 bridge due to 20mph Wales speed limit protest
Motorists heading west on the M4 can expect disruption today[1] when a protest is stage over the new 20mph speed limit in Wales. Around 100 to 300 protesters are set to take part this afternoon (Saturday September 30).
The group, who are said to be "car enthusiasts", are expected to block the Prince of Wales Bridge and drive at 20mph towards Cardiff Gate. It comes after Wales became the first UK nation to lower the national speed limit on most residential roads from 30mph to 20mph on September 17[2].
The protesters argue that 20mph is "more dangerous" than 30mph. They say that motorists overtaking in 20mph zones will be reaching speeds of over 30mph.
Going somewhere? Catch up with the latest Traffic and Travel stories here[4]
Caitlin Louise, a spokesperson for the car group, said: "We are starting it at 2pm, but as we’re a car community (car clubs & enthusiasts) we are pre meeting at Aust, at 1pm.
"There will be roughly 100-300+ people. We are either blocking the bridge, or we will be doing 20mph from Aust services all the way to Cardiff Gate, or even both.
“We are doing this due to the fact this 20mph is more dangerous than 30mph. There are people overtaking in 20mph zones doing more than 30mph, running red lights, the road rage that’s coming along with this is outrageous also.
“We know this probably isn’t going to work, but we’re coming together as a community to at least try, for the safety of our roads. We have English car clubs coming over to support us also.”
Gwent Police is reportedly aware of the potential protest and is working to minimise its impact.
References
- ^ expect disruption today (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ from 30mph to 20mph on September 17 (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ Welsh town that was pilot for 20mph speed limit says 'we told you so' as petition signatures climb (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ here (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)