Marlborough 40mph speed limit plan to tackle 'safety fears'

The speed limit on Frees Avenue, on the outskirts of Marlborough, could be reduced from 60mph after a request from the town council, who raised concerns over the safety of road users on the busy route.

This comes after years of residents appealing for increased safety measures to protect pedestrians along Frees Avenue, near the rugby club, Marlborough Common, Marlborough cemetery, and the Wessex Ridgeway footpath.

Wiltshire Council has now officially proposed to lower the speed limit on the road, between Marlborough Cemetery and Rockley.

Frees Avenue, Marlborough (Image: Marlborough Town Council)

The national speed limit currently comes into force before motorists pass the cemetery as they leave the town, but would be pushed back significantly under these proposals.

In a statement justifying the scheme, the council said that a speed limit reduction would “avoid danger” to people or other traffic using the road.

This proposal is subject to a traffic order consultation, which gives residents the opportunity to share their views on the plan, running until December 11.

Some road safety measures, such as white posts to highlight crossing points, are already in place.