Applications will shortly be closing for the final phase of the 20mph rollout in Oxfordshire.

Oxfordshire County Council said there is 'a small window' to apply to be part of the third phase which takes place in 2024 - 25.

Oxfordshire County Council first introduced 20mph in the pilot areas of Cuxham, Long Wittenham, Wallingford Central and Wallingford North in 2021/2022.

The council said it would create safer, healthier and quieter streets and encourage people to walk or cycle.

In February 2022, cabinet approved funding of up to £8million for a three-year project to lower speeds to 20mph on most urban areas and village streets where it was supported by residents and the county councillor.

The first two phases of the project were fully booked and only around 40 of the 310 parishes in Oxfordshire not applying to provide 20mph limits.

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So far over 130 towns and villages have had 20mph speed reductions implemented with 94 schemes pending.

A change of speed signs to more complex engineered solutions is funded by the council but it will not provide speed cameras or traffic calming, such as road humps.

The council said it couldn't  give a figure at this stage but is "expecting the project to come in under budget".

And it said the reduced speed limits were proven to increase road safety.

A spokesperson said: "The introduction of 20mph in our pilot areas as already reduced speeds by up to 4mph.

"This has really benefitted the local communities and it will help to reduce the frequency and severity of accidents."

Meanwhile Thames Valley Police has expressed concerns and said it will enforce "where appropriate" based on "threat of harm, risk and resourcing".

The force has also admitted its current speed cameras can not detect 20mph.

How many towns have 20mph speed limits in Oxfordshire?

Witney - implemented

Abingdon - implemented

Banbury – due to be decided at Cabinet Member for Transport Management delegated decisions meeting in September

Bloxham – implemented but discussions continue with the parish council on some additions/amendments

Wallingford - due for a decision in September following a further consultation on a revised scheme to that originally advertised

Thame - due to go before cabinet in October 

Wantage - implemented and order came into effect today (August 12)

Didcot - implemented in Ladygrove with a consultation on a wider scheme planned soon

Bicester - Oxfordshire County Council is seeking views of local county councillors and Bicester Town Council. Subject to these discussions it plans to carry out a formal consultation  later in 2024 and if a scheme is then approved, implementation is likely to  be carried out in early 2025.

Applications to be included in phase 3, the last phase, are still open.

If you wish for your town or parish to be included, contact the 20mph team at Oxfordshire County Council via 20restrictions@oxfordshire.gov.uk.