At a Glance
- Residents around Glendale Gardens were promised a 20mph zone in 2023.
- Speed tables and markings are in place, but the scheme has not gone live.
- Missing 20mph signs mean the limit cannot be enforced.
- The Greens are calling on the Labour-led administration to urgently complete the scheme.
Residents living around Glendale Gardens, across Leigh and West Leigh wards, were promised a 20mph zone by the Liberal Democrats in 2023. Years on, the scheme remains incomplete.
The physical works were finished some time ago. Speed tables have been installed, road markings painted and signposts erected. Yet the zone has still not gone live due to repeated council errors.
The crucial 20mph signs have never been installed, meaning the lower limit cannot be enforced by police. What was meant to be a flagship road safety scheme has been left half-finished, leaving pedestrians and families in limbo.
Anita Forde, Green candidate for Leigh Ward, said:
“It is extraordinary that a councillor is congratulating themselves in the press while residents are still waiting for this basic safety measure to be delivered. The Greens have consistently pressed officers for answers, but those running the council have failed to finish the job.”
Simon Gibus, Green candidate for West Leigh Ward, added:
“I have repeatedly raised this issue. Our Green councillors have kept the pressure on too, yet this ongoing delay leaves the area in a worse position. Pedestrians may assume traffic is travelling at 20mph, when in reality many drivers are still legally doing 30mph. That confusion creates risk.”
Local resident, Jarl Jansen also said:
“Residents in Lymington Avenue are frequently subjected to vehicles travelling at a speed far in excess of 20mph and greater than 30mph, with all the hazards that presents in terms of collision with other vehicles or pedestrians.”
The Greens are calling on the Labour-led administration to urgently install the signage and bring the 20mph zone into force without any further delay.
South East Essex Green Party
Branch Chair: Lauren Ekins