Debate Over Proposed Speed Limit Reduction on Lincolnshire's A15
There is an ongoing debate in Lincolnshire over a proposed change in the speed limit on a section of the A15, following 27 accidents involving injuries over the past five years. The county council is considering a reduction from the current limit of 60mph to 40mph, specifically on the stretch between Harmston crossroads and Green Man Road, situated south of Waddington and Lincoln.
A recent council report advocated for this change, asserting that it would bolster safety on the problematic road. Karl McCartney, the MP for Lincoln, has come out in support of this initiative, arguing that it would "increase safety in a way that will keep the traffic moving".
Division In Local Opinion
Speed surveys executed in the local area have revealed a mean traffic speed ranging between 42 and 45mph. Despite this, community reactions to the proposed limit reduction have been diverse. An adamant advocate for the speed reduction, Aaron Howe, commented: "The mean speed is between 42 and 45mph already, which is far too fast and goes to show a huge proportion are currently driving at or well above the current 60mph limit."
"I'd probably go further and make it 30mph. Traffic lights and roundabouts are cost-prohibitive. Despite the contrary opinions, the reality is that speed kills. You can argue it doesn't until the cows come home, but reduce the speed, reduce the collisions - and, those that do occur, their severity."
Meanwhile, Paul Elkins, a regular commuter on the A15, expressed scepticism over the proposed solution, urging instead for infrastructural enhancements: "Reducing the speed limit, as has already been done around Leasingham prior to the Holdingham roundabout, will have little to zero impact on the issues with regard to the increased traffic at these intersections."
While several other residents emphasised on driver responsibility, with some blaming increased traffic due to new housing or reckless driving habits, they all agreed that the introduction of traffic lights or road redesigns would prove beneficial in improving the situation.
Upcoming Decision
The final decision regarding the speed limit change will be made by the county council's planning and regulation committee in the coming week.