As a concerned citizen of Wales, I am deeply troubled by the recent implementation of the 20mph speed limit across our country. This decision was made without giving us, the people, an opportunity to voice our opinions or vote on such a significant change that affects our daily lives.

This petition is personal to me because it infringes upon our basic human rights. We have a fundamental right to participate in decisions that impact us directly, especially when it comes to matters as crucial as road safety and transportation regulations.

I understand the importance of road safety and protecting vulnerable road users; however, imposing an arbitrary 20mph speed limit across all roads is not only unnecessary but also impractical. It fails to consider various factors such as road design, traffic flow patterns, and driver behavior.

While I acknowledge that reducing speeds can contribute to reducing accidents and fatalities in certain areas with high pedestrian activity or near schools, implementing this blanket restriction without considering local conditions is unfair and unjustifiable. It penalizes law-abiding drivers who have always adhered to previous speed limits responsibly.

Furthermore, there are alternative measures available that can effectively enhance road safety without inconveniencing motorists unnecessarily. These include improved infrastructure design (such as wider pavements or dedicated cycling lanes), increased education about responsible driving habits for both motorists and pedestrians alike, enhanced enforcement of existing traffic laws targeting reckless driving behaviors specifically.

To support my concerns regarding this new speed limit policy in Wales:

1. According to a study conducted by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), there is no clear evidence suggesting that widespread implementation of 20mph limits significantly reduces accidents or improves overall road safety.
2. A report published by The Institute for Transport Studies at Leeds University highlights how blanket reductions in speed limits may lead drivers into complacency due to reduced perceived risk.
3. The Department for Transport's own guidance suggests that speed limits should be set based on the principles of consistency, predictability, and self-explaining roads. A blanket 20mph limit does not align with these principles.

We, the people of Wales, demand that our voices be heard and our concerns addressed. We call upon the Welsh Government to review and reconsider this unfair 20mph speed limit policy. Let us have a say in what happens in our country by engaging in open dialogue and conducting thorough consultations with all stakeholders involved.

Together, we can find a balanced solution that prioritizes road safety while respecting the rights and needs of all citizens. Sign this petition today to make a difference and ensure our voices are heard!