**Petition to Implement Speed Control Measures on Ashwell Road, Oakham**

Ashwell Road, a busy thoroughfare in Oakham, has become a growing concern for residents due to the persistent problem of excessive speeding. Oakham's rapid growth has led to a surge in the number of vehicles on the roads, as drivers increasingly use Ashwell Road as a shortcut. This reckless behaviour poses a significant threat to the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. 

Key Demands:

• Replace the existing bumps with full width speed bumps to prevent drivers from bypassing them
• Increase the number of 20MPH signs along the road.
• Install a speed camera to deter speeding.
• Implement an average speed check zone with a 20MPH limit.
• Add speed bumps around Rutland Garden Village 
• Add more street lighting for those walking & cycling from Rutland Garden Village into Oakham.

The Problem

Numerous incidents have highlighted the dangers of speeding on Ashwell Road. These include the tragic loss of pets and the constant risk to children attending nearby schools. Despite existing speed bumps, drivers continue to disregard the safety of others by exceeding safe limits. This reckless behaviour not only jeopardises lives but also creates a stressful and unpleasant environment for residents.

 

**Proposed Solutions**

To mitigate the risks associated with speeding on Ashwell Road, we propose the implementation of one or both of the following measures:

1. 20 MPH Signs: Increasing the number of 20 MPH signs would serve as a clear and consistent reminder to drivers of the speed limit. These signs should be placed at strategic locations throughout Ashwell Road to enhance visibility and reinforce the message.
2. Bigger Speed Bumps:  Speed bumps would create physical barriers that force drivers to slow down. This would help to reduce the speed of vehicles, particularly in areas where pedestrians and cyclists are most likely to cross and not have them bypassing through the middle.
3. Speed Camera: A speed camera would act as a highly visible deterrent to speeding drivers. By capturing and recording vehicle speeds, it would provide evidence for enforcement and potentially lead to fines or other penalties.
4. Average Speed Check Zone: An average speed check zone would monitor the speed of vehicles over a specific distance. Drivers who exceed the average speed limit would be subject to penalties. This approach can be particularly effective in deterring speeding on longer stretches of road.

 

**Benefits of Implementing Speed Control Measures**

* **Enhanced Safety:** By reducing the speed of vehicles, these measures would significantly improve the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists on Ashwell Road.

* **Protection of Vulnerable Road Users:** Children, the elderly, and those with disabilities would benefit from a safer environment.

* **Improved Quality of Life:** Residents would experience a reduced level of stress and anxiety associated with excessive traffic noise and the risk of accidents.

* **Enforcement of Traffic Laws:** Speed cameras and average speed check zones would help to enforce existing traffic regulations and promote responsible driving behaviour.

 

**Call to Action**

 

We urge all residents and concerned citizens to join us in this petition to demand the implementation of speed control measures on Ashwell Road. By signing this petition, you are expressing your support for a safer and more enjoyable community for everyone.

 

**Mr & Mrs Sugars**