07/07/2026
Q&A SPEED LIMIT CHANGES 🚗
Cllr Bob Ward has kindly collated a selection of questions and answers concerning speed limit changes in Burton Bradstock.
Why has Burton Bradstock Parish Council submitted an application to create a 20 mph limit in the village?
Burton Bradstock Parish Council submitted an application to Dorset Council in March 2025 to create a 20 mph limit in the village in response to longstanding concerns from residents about the speed of vehicles travelling along the B3157 (also known as the coast road). There is growing evidence that reducing traffic speeds to 20 mph cuts the number of deaths and injuries due to road collisions. The Parish Council submitted its application for a 20 mph limit following changes in national and local government policies on 20 mph zones after the national and local elections in 2024.
What evidence is there that the residents of Burton Bradstock want a 20 mph limit in the village?
A survey of village residents was carried out for the Parish Council in early 2024. There were 208 respondents, of which 158 (76%) answered “Yes” to the question “In general, are you concerned about the speed at which cars, vans and motorcycles travel along the main road (the B3157) through the village?” The survey also asked: “Thinking about safety while you are walking along roads in the village, are there any changes you would like to see (all that apply)?”. The most selected of seven options was “Reduce the speed limit to 20 mph for at least part of the village
The Head Teacher and parents of pupils at Burton Bradstock School have also asked the Parish Council for measures to improve road safety in the village.
Has the Parish Council considered any other ways of improving road safety in the village?
The Parish Council has previously asked Dorset Council to create a pedestrian crossing near to the garage on the B3157. However, after measuring the number of vehicles and pedestrians along that section of the B3157, Dorset Council decided that the site did not meet its criteria for a pedestrian crossing.
The Parish Council has also asked Dorset Council to consider the installation of speed indicator devices (SIDs) on the B3157 at both ends of the village. However, after carrying out speed surveys, Dorset Council decided that neither site met the criteria for SIDs.There has been a Community Speed Watch scheme in Burton Bradstock for many years.
Why are Dorset Council carrying out a survey about the proposed 20 mph limit now?
Dorset Council’s policy for 20 mph limits and zones, including the assessment criteria, can be accessed here: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/20-mile-per-hour-mph-policy
Why do we need a 20 mph limit in the centre of the village where the traffic already slows down?
The 20 mph limit will apply at all times, not just when there is a lot of traffic and vehicles are travelling slowly.
When would the 20 mph limit take effect?
It is expected that the 20 mph limit in Burton Bradstock will be introduced later in 2026 if Dorset Council decide to proceed with it.
If it goes ahead, how will the 20 mph limit be enforced?
A 20 mph limit in the village will be enforced by Dorset Police in the same way as the current speed limits are in Burton Bradstock.
How do I take part in the current public consultation by Dorset Council about the 20 mph limit in Burton Bradstock?
Please take part in the public consultation about the proposed 20 mph limit by visiting the Dorset Council website at: https://consultation.appyway.com/dorset/moving-order/0049e5d6-6c24-450e-b6a0-03389b6a3103
The deadline for taking part in the consultation is 17 July 2026.
Do I need to take part in the survey if I have already expressed my views on a 20 mph limit?
It is very important that everybody in Burton Bradstock participates in the Dorset Council public consultation in order to inform the decision about whether to proceed with the proposed 20 mph limit.
Who should I contact at the Parish Council if I have any questions about the proposed 20 mph limit?
If you have any questions about the 20 mph limit, please contact Councillor Bob Ward on [email protected] or 07811-320346.
