Vol. 431 No. 1
20 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment if he intends reviewing the regulations governing the installation of speed control ramps; if he will consider other methods of reducing the speed of traffic, particularly in built-up areas, including the introduction of a 20 mph speed limit in housing estates; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Powers available under the Road Traffic Acts can be used to secure reductions in the speed of vehicles using particular roads, including the provision of ramps and the imposition of speed limits. A comprehensive review of the Road Traffic (Bollards and Ramps) Regulations, 1988, which apply to the provision of road ramps, is being carried out. As part of that review, local authorities were asked to furnish their views in relation to the provisions of the regulations and their experience in the use of ramps. The views of local authorities are being considered and I hope to complete the review in the near future.
I have no proposals at this stage to provide for speed limits below the standard built up area speed limit at 30 mph. The position will be kept under review in the light of developments in other EC states involving the selective application of lower limits in conjunction with self-enforcing physical measures to reduce traffic speeds.
The general question of traffic calming measures is one of a range of issues which is being considered as part of the Dublin Transportation Initiative. While that study is confined to the Dublin area, any conclusions or recommendations relating to traffic calming would also have some relevance to other urban areas. I will consider the need for additional measures when I receive the final Dublin Transport Initiative recommendations.
