A convoy protesting 20mph is planning to travel around Wales for two days, in opposition to the country’s default 20mph speed limit. The United Voices group, which was formed last year to campaign against the limit, is organising the protest. The demonstration, set to take place over two days starting from September 14, will see the convoy travel clockwise around Wales from a Pembrokeshire starting point. While the specific route has not been publicly disclosed for safety reasons, roads such as the M4 and A55 are expected to be included.
The convoy’s organiser, Annette Jones, stated that the protest would not involve a “go-slow” approach, with vehicles likely travelling at speeds between 50mph and 60mph on roads where overtaking is possible. While the exact number of participants is unknown, the core group of vehicles is in single figures, with additional supporters set to join the protest as it moves across Wales.
Following the two-day journey, the group plans to hold a demonstration at the Senedd on September 17, coinciding with the first anniversary of the default speed limit implementation. The United Voices group has raised concerns about the impact of the 20mph policy, highlighting a petition with nearly 470,000 signatures calling for its removal.
In response to the protest, the Welsh Government stated that collision data indicates a positive impact on road safety, with a decrease in serious casualties or deaths on 20mph and 30mph Welsh roads. The government has allocated funds to reassess the scheme and has begun the process of reverting some roads to a 30mph limit based on council assessments.
The United Voices group has invited Senedd members to engage with them at various points along the convoy route. The group also welcomes the support of the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone protest) group from London to bolster their cause. Emphasising the need for the Welsh Government to address public concerns, the group aims to advocate for changes to the current speed limit legislation.