Petition to Reassess the 20 mph Speed Limit in London

We, the undersigned residents of London, firmly assert our ownership of our city and formally petition for the reconsideration and removal of the enforced 20 mph speed limit on our roads. The implementation of this regulation has led to significant traffic congestion, transforming what was previously a five-minute journey into one that now takes nearly twenty minutes.

The justification provided by the Mayor for this speed restriction is fundamentally flawed. It is well-documented that driving at lower speeds can increase fuel consumption and prolong travel times, thereby exacerbating traffic congestion rather than alleviating it. Furthermore, the closure of several roads has compelled drivers onto main thoroughfares, which intensifies congestion and frustration among commuters.

The current restrictions have compromised the quality of life for residents of London. With the rising cost of living, coupled with increased travel times, an undue burden is placed on our daily lives. The Mayor’s approach prioritises regulatory measures over the practical realities of living and commuting in our city.

The Mayor’s approach prioritises regulatory measures over the practical realities of living and commuting in our city, often with a focus on financial gain.

As residents of London, we observe busy functioning roads are now being reconstructed with unnecessarily widened pavements where pedestrian traffic is minimal, while essential routes that should accommodate 40 mph traffic are limited to 20 mph. This mismanagement must be addressed.

Cycle lanes are being placed on inadequately narrowed roads, where the pavements are wider than the roads themselves. This design fails to accommodate necessary bus lanes, leading to increased congestion. Additionally, some councils have constructed bus stops with random stands located in the middle of the road, which obstruct oncoming traffic and further exacerbate delays.

The current design choices made by local authorities clearly demonstrate a disregard for the needs and safety of drivers. The way roads are being altered reflects a lack of consideration for the overall traffic flow and the impacts on all road users.

As road users, we pay road tax, yet we face issues like excessive potholes and poorly maintained road surfaces that damage our vehicles, particularly the suspension systems. This ongoing neglect raises concerns about how our tax funds are allocated. We believe it is only fair to request a refund, as we deserve well-maintained roads for our safety and the longevity of our vehicles.

The introduction of the 20 mph speed limit was deliberately implemented and designed as part of an exploitation strategy during lockdown, serving as a form of control over drivers and reinforcing a sense of conformity reminiscent of "sheepism."

The Mayor of London observed how COVID-19 allowed for increased fear and control over the nation and then turned that control against us through our roads.

This approach not only encourages compliance but also leads to feelings of frustration and powerlessness among motorists. By forcing drivers to operate in a robotic mental state and in the lowest gear, this speed limit fosters a mindset of compliance, reinforcing cognitive dissonance, and is used for monetary gain through heightened fines and penalties. 

These measures significantly impact drivers' psychology, affecting their daily commutes and perpetuating a sense of being controlled for profit. This represents exploitation at the highest degree.

The speed limit results in inefficient fuel consumption and a suboptimal driving experience. Research shows that driving at lower speeds increases engine strain, undermining the benefits of the speed limit. We are being controlled for profit.

Additionally, this enforcement method causes impatience in motorists, conditioning them to act in ways that conflict with conventional driving practices, ultimately undermining their overall driving experience and safety.

We urge the relevant authorities to restore the 30 mph speed limit and reinstate the 40 mph limit on appropriate roads, allowing for more efficient travel and reducing unnecessary congestion.

Thank you.

Sincerely

We the London People