Pupils from Sciennes and Gillespie’s primary schools tested out a new 20mph (32kph) Limit Pilot in South Central Edinburgh earlier today by walking a route between their two schools.
Under the 20mph pilot scheme many roads in the South Central area (Southside, Grange area) now have a 20mph reduced speed limit.
The Council-led road safety initiatives is being delivered by the Streets Ahead Road Safety Partnership, and surveys found that more there was more than 70% support for the new speed limit.
Where 20mph zones with traffic calming have been introduced in other areas of the city, road casualties have reduced by between 30% and 50%.
Five schools in the area, including Gillespie’s and Sciennes primaries, are currently taking part in a campaign called 'Just give me a minute', aimed at urging family and friends who drive to make a pledge to slow down to 20mph in the new zone.
Pupils from participating schools will campaign to collect the highest number of signed pledge cards in support of this pilot over the next few months.
Marshall Poulton, Head of Transport, said: "Making Edinburgh’s roads safe for everyone is crucial. Evidence suggests 20mph limits make streets safer and more attractive for cycling and walking as well as reducing collisions. In addition, more people walking or cycling is good for health, reducing congestion and improving the environment.
"This campaign will rely heavily on community support in order to make the 20mph limit pilot work as there are no traffic calming measures being implemented. This is a first in Scotland, and we hope that by getting the schoolchildren involved as champions it will send out a powerful message to drivers and appeal to their sense of responsibility for their community."
John Palmer, from Grange/Prestonfield Community Council said: "As local residents we are pleased to welcome this pilot and its promise to make our streets safer and more pleasant for all, families, children, older people, to walk and cycle in. We would have liked to see all roads included in the zone, but now that we’ve got all these new signs up we hope drivers will take notice and pledge to keep within the limits."
Major roads such as Melville Drive, Dalkeith Road, Grange Road, Marchmont Road, and Cluny Gardens retain the 30mph speed limit (see map, PDF).
If the 20mph pilot in South Edinburgh is a success, similar zones could be introduced citywide.