Suffolk County Council has adopted a new policy, effective January 2026, that makes it significantly easier for towns and villages to introduce 20mph speed limits. Under the revised approach, applications are now more likely to be approved where the existing average speed is 28mph or below and where there is clear evidence of community support.

The intention behind the policy is straightforward:

•     improve road safety

•     reduce the number and severity of accidents

•     enhance quality of life for residents, pedestrians, and cyclists

While the new framework is a welcome step, there are still areas that need to be streamlined. A common source of confusion arises when new housing developments are built on the edge of a village. Many residents understandably expect the speed‑limit boundary to move automatically to reflect the expanded settlement, yet this does not currently happen without a formal review and application.

Even so, the updated policy gives communities far more influence than before. If the majority of residents support a 20mph zone—and the existing speeds meet the criteria—villages should now find it much easier to secure approval.

If you would like to see the introduction of a 20mph speed limit though Badwell Ash and Long Thurlow contact the Parish Clerk badwellashpc@outlook.com