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A law to reduce speed limits across most residential areas is to be brought forward in Wales.

The Welsh Government intends to make it law for most 30mph speed limits to change to 20mph in April 2023.

There has been mixed reaction to the proposal, with some people saying it is a good thing, and others feeling negative towards towards the plan.

Read more: A law to change the speed limit to 20mph across Wales is coming next year.

Here's what people said when we asked them if all 30mph speed limits should be changed to 20mph:

Some people thought the proposals were positive.

John Coles said: "Totally for it. Once settled into it you would notice no difference in travel time and be less stressed".

Steven Thomas agreed. He said: "That's fine. It was done in Scotland years ago and works well. It's actually more relaxing for drivers when you adjust to it."

The Welsh Government plans will apply to any road where street lights are not more than 200 yards apart and where the default speed limit is 30mph. This means it will mostly affect residential and built-up areas.

Rachel Evans lives in a pilot area. She said: "They are trialling this on our town right now. I’ll be honest it’s a nightmare! Agree on some roads but not all".

There will be some exceptions to the new speed limits, based on criteria linked to the number of houses, schools, community centres and shops alongside the road. Local councils can look at that criteria and decide whether to keep the 30mph speed limit on specific roads.

Many people agreed with a 20mph speed limit outside schools, but not for other areas.

Paul Williams said: "Outside schools fair enough, everywhere else no it just causes traffic problems and nobody will pay attention to it anyway".

Alan Gardiner agreed. He said: "No, only around schools should be 20. It’s a bit stupid driving 20mph on a wide road at 10pm".

Katrina Hinder added: "Around schools is fine but not on dual carriageways or wider roads".

Pedestrians are five times more likely to be killed if hit at 30mph compared to 20mph. As well as safety benefits, 20mph zones improve air quality, reduce noise pollution and can encourage more physical activity through walking and cycling.

Some people think that the new rules will make no difference.

Chris Brown said: "Nobody takes any notice of the 20mph".

John Blackman added: "It wouldn't make any difference, we have had 20mph on our road for about two years and the only ones that take notice of it are learner drivers."

And some people were more concerned about the rising petrol prices.

Mathew Williams said: "Doesn't matter come next year be no cars on road as no one can afford the fuel."

What do you think about the proposals? Let us know in the comments section.

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