Changes to speed limit rules should prioritise the safety of vulnerable road users, especially around schools, Henderson-Massey Local Board says.
The board provided feedback to the Government’s consultation on the setting of speed limits, and says that the proposed approach contradicts current, research-based approaches to keeping roads safe, such as Road to Zero and safer speed zones.
Deputy Chair Will Flavell says the board has expressed a clear view that keeping roads safe should be a priority.
“Our feedback reflects our concern that reversing safer speed limits does not consider the available research around creating safer roads.
“We continue to support Auckland Transport’s Vision Zero goal of protecting vulnerable road users and to meet its 2050 goal of having zero deaths and serious injuries on Auckland’s roads.”
The feedback notes that the Henderson-Massey Local Board area has a high number of residential safer speed zones compared to other local board areas.
This includes areas where safer speed zones were requested by local schools and community groups.
“As a result, our area will be more affected by any changes to safer speed zones, disadvantaging the community.
“Tamariki travelling to school are amongst the most vulnerable road users, and keeping speed limits lower is one thing we can do to keep them safer.”
The first safer speeds trial was piloted by the board in Te Atatū South in 2018 and 2019. With the proposed speed “wind-back” date in the consultation being 2020, the board argues that this project should not be included in the list of streets that will have their speeds changed to the pre-2020 speed.
Flavell says that the Henderson-Massey Local Board is committed to prioritising transport projects that improve safety and health and contribute to climate action and social outcomes.
“We see opportunities to expand public transport options to improve access to employment, education and recreation.
“The consultation directly conflicts with our transport priorities as a board, and we have been clear about that in our submission.”
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