Jersey Road – Traffic Calming Measures Survey

Following consistent reports of traffic using Jersey Road as a cut-through and concerns about vehicle speeds, we have undertaken traffic speed surveys in the area.

Before considering the design stage of any potential traffic management or calming measures, we would like to understand if action to reduce vehicle speeds on Jersey Road would be supported by residents.

The results of the traffic surveys show that approximately 85% of vehicles are currently travelling at or below the existing legal speed limit of 30mph.  This indicates that vehicle speeds broadly reflect the posted limit, which means that enforcement alone is unlikely to lead to significant changes in driver behaviour.

Whilst most drivers are complying with the current speed limit, the Council recognises that a 30mph environment may not be appropriate for this road. Lower speeds could help reduce the use of Jersey Road as a through route between South End Road and Mungo Park Road and improve road safety while making streets feel more comfortable and accessible for people walking and cycling, particularly children, older residents and those with mobility impairments.

Current Department for Transport guidance identifies that where existing vehicle speeds are at the levels observed on Jersey Road, a reduction in the speed limit to 20mph would not be effective through signing and road markings alone. Physical traffic calming measures would therefore be required to help achieve compliance with a lower speed limit.

Such measures could include raised sections of the road, for example at entrances to Jersey Road or at key points along the street. These features are designed to encourage lower vehicle speeds and can also make it easier and safer for people to cross the road. Other measures, such as speed cushions or speed humps, may also be considered.

The exact type and location of any measures would be informed by a further site assessment. The approach would need to be proportionate, take account of local constraints and conditions, and balance the needs and concerns of different road users and residents.  The aim would be to identify a set of measures that provides overall road safety benefits while being appropriate for the character and function of the street.