At the time of the study, some parts of Kendal already had 20mph zones, with these being located in selected residential estate areas. The principal reason for undertaking the study was to make a case for a town-wide 20mph speed limit, in order to provide a more cycle-friendly environment.
We sourced speed data collected from mobile phone records to gain an understanding of existing traffic speeds throughout the town at different times of the day and week. Following data analysis and a review of relevant policy guidance, we were able to give Kendal Town Council reassurance that there was a sound case for introducing a town-wide 20mph limit, in order to make a case for funding from the Local Highway Authority.
Our work also looked at the potential for expanding upon existing 20mph zones, in the event that a town-wide scheme was not acceptable. We provide cost assessments of different options, following the latest guidance in terms of signing requirements. We added value and knowledge to our assessment by cycling around the town to gain a better understanding of which particular areas of the road network were in need of speed reductions in order to provide a more cycle-friendly environment.