ABD rejects claims by 20mph lobby

Members of the campaign group ABD have overwhelmingly rejected the claims made by 20mph advocates that reducing speed limits will increase cycling, walking and improve health and quality of life.

• 94.4 per cent of respondents did not believe that 20mph limits or zones would increase quality of life and improve health.
• 96 per cent of respondents stated that 20mph limits or zones would not make them likely to cycle.
• 97.7 per cent of respondents said that 20mph limits or zones would not make them walk more often.
• 54.9 per cent of those respondents now live in or near 20mph zones or limits.

ABD spokesman Sean Corker said, “It is vital that we challenge assumptions made by 20mph advocates and local authorities to prevent them becoming accepted as fact.”

“Claims made by 20mph advocates for road safety, about walking, cycling and quality of life are being exposed as either grossly exaggerated or simply not true. Yet advocates continue to assert these claims as justification for their attempts to force people to use ‘compromised’ modes of transport instead of their cars.”

He continued “If 20mph advocates are serious about increasing walking and cycling as opposed to just punishing drivers, then let’s build on current good practice. Cycle routes situated in beautiful countryside are only a short car trip away for the vast majority of people and bike racks on cars are becoming an increasingly common sight.  A 2011 study found that the average dog owner walks 36 miles a week.”