Monmouthshire County Council has undertaken a comprehensive review of the 20mph speed limits across the county, following the Welsh Government’s directive to gather residents’ feedback and the provision of new ’30mph exception’ guidance in 2024.
The council participated in the initial phase of the 20mph rollout during 2022-2023, with selected roads in Abergavenny and the Severnside area included as two of the eight national pilot projects.
Participation in the pilot facilitated preparation for the national rollout in 2023. Recognising the unique usage of each local road, the council reviewed each one with local councillors before making decisions within the scope of the original exceptions guidance from the Welsh Government. Adjustments were made to certain roads in the pilot, including reverting the B4245 and Caldicot Road back to 30mph following feedback.
The council’s request for feedback generated 1,496 responses from residents, highlighting 143 roads where some residents felt that a return to the 30mph speed limit would be more appropriate. After conducting an analysis, four roads were selected for reassessment: B4245 through Magor, Undy, Rogiet, and Caldicot; Hereford Road, Abergavenny; A4143, Abergavenny; and A4077 Abergavenny Road and Cae Meldon, Gilwern.
Upon reassessing the identified roads against the Welsh Government’s updated 30mph guidance—which emphasises the importance of providing a safe environment for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists, while considering the movement function and road characteristics—the council has concluded that no further changes are required, and all roads currently set at 20mph will remain at that limit.
Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Councillor Catrin Maby, expressed gratitude to all who provided feedback during the review, stating that the council’s top priority is the safety of all residents and visitors. The reassessment concluded that all roads changed to a 20mph speed limit will remain at that limit.
Feedback related to general policy or Trunk Roads were not considered, as these are matters for the Welsh Government.
