With effect from June 2011, the Department for Transport have made it easier for local councils to establish 20mph zones in local roads. The government have relaxed some of the requirements in terms of signage and the need for traffic calming measures in 20mph zones. The result of this is likely to be an increased number of 20mph zones in residentail areas, and possibly a decrease in the number of speed humps.
Councils will now be able to paint the speed limit on the road as a reminder, rather than having to install repeater signs or speed humps. This results in a net saving for councils - the cost of a speed hump is around £450, while a painted sign is around £40. It is expected that motorsist will benefit from this in the form of lower vehicle maintenance costs for drivers who repeatedly need to drive across speed humps.
