Crystal Palace is a vibrant, multi-borough area governed by Bromley, Lewisham, Southwark, and Croydon councils. While Lewisham, Southwark, and Croydon have already rolled out 20mph speed limits across their jurisdictions, Bromley has not.
With the other councils successful in their implementation of 20mph, could Crystal Palace and Anerley pave the way for Bromley to implement a 20mph limit?
Why 20mph? A Global and Local Perspective
The Stockholm Declaration, endorsed by the United Nations, calls for reducing road traffic deaths and injuries by 50% by 2030, with a maximum speed of 30km/h (20mph) in areas where vehicles mix with vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.
Locally, Lewisham, Southwark, and Croydon have already demonstrated the benefits of 20mph zones, including:
- Fewer collisions: Slower speeds reduce both the likelihood and severity of accidents.
- Improved air quality: Vehicles travelling at consistent speeds emit fewer pollutants, benefiting public health.
- Safer environments for walking and cycling: These zones encourage active travel, improving physical and mental well-being.
Lessons from Wales: Evidence of Success
In September 2023, Wales became the first UK nation to introduce a default 20mph speed limit in built-up areas. This has resulted in:
- 40% reduction in serious injuries in pilot areas.
- Lower vehicle emissions thanks to smoother, more consistent driving.
- Safer, more liveable streets that foster a greater sense of community.
Wales’ success provides clear evidence of the benefits that Bromley could achieve by implementing 20mph zones in Crystal Palace and Anerley.
Proposed Roads in Bromley Council’s Jurisdiction
To ensure consistency with neighbouring councils, we have been conducting research on what roads could benefit from 20mph in Crystal Palace and Anerley, which are under Bromley Council’s jurisdiction:
- Anerley Hill
- Anerley Road
- Thicket Road
- Crystal Palace Park Road
- Croydon Road (from the borough boundary near Elmers End to Anerley)
Is there a road not on this list that you would like to see included, get in touch.
A Safer, Greener Future for Crystal Palace and Anerley
By adopting 20mph zones, Bromley Council can join Lewisham, Southwark, and Croydon in creating safer streets, reducing emissions, and encouraging active travel. If other councils in the area and Wales can implement 20mph as a default, and it meets our international commitments, why can’t Crystal Palace and Anerley be next?