The 20mph speed limit in Wales, enforced since May 2023, has seen a period of leniency towards speeding violations to allow for driver adjustment. Initially, an educational approach was taken rather than immediate enforcement, while the threshold for prosecuting speeding was raised. While the usual threshold for other limits is 10% plus 2mph, on 20mph roads, this was adjusted to 10% plus 4mph, starting enforcement at 26mph.
Despite this higher threshold, recent months have shown a surge in offences on 20mph roads as enforcement has intensified. Now, plans are in motion to review this threshold in March next year. The review by Chief Police Officers aims to potentially lower the threshold to 24mph, suggesting stricter penalties. The police chiefs have the option to review this earlier if needed.
Another ongoing review involves potentially reverting some roads back to 30mph based on public feedback. By March, most speed limit changes should be finalised for the chief officers’ review. Go Safe, following NPCC guidelines, focuses enforcement on significant speeding violations. They collaborate with councils to avoid enforcing in areas likely to change speed limits.
Looking ahead, further reviews may lead to adjustments in the enforcement threshold, ensuring transparency through official channels. The discussions aim to balance road safety with appropriate penalties for speeding violations.