HAMPSHIRE civic chiefs given the green light for 20mph pilot schemes to be rolled out across the county.

Residents in Stanmore, Winchester, will be among the first in Hampshire to trial the reduced speeds along with Cherbourg Road area in Eastleigh and Medstead near Alresford.

Highcliffe and Winnall will also be subject to further pilots though these have been agreed by Winchester City Council under separate Government funding.

Almost 11,000 questionnaires were sent to residents asking the scheme, with over two thirds responding favourably, ranging from 67 per cent in Hart to 91 per cent in Fareham.

Cllr Seán Woodward, Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, said: “The decision today is an important step in establishing the viability of reduced speed limits in residential areas. If the trials are successful, there is the potential to introduce similar schemes in other areas across the county. 

“The new limits are being trialled to directly address the concerns of local communities. We are only taking forward schemes where we have seen a positive response from local residents – their backing is vital if the new limits are to have an effect.”

Critics argue that 20mph limits are a waste of money and do not cut accidents as they make some road-users complacent.

The scheme will also be introduced in Whitchurch, Floral Way in Andover, East Hampshire, Wallington Village in Fareham, Farnborough North Camp in Rushmoor and in Hythe.