A CAMPAIGN to lower the speed limit to 20mph has received support from civic chiefs.

Cllr James Batho called on Winchester City Council to support the 20 is Plenty Campaign.

Currently, Winchester operates 20mph zones in the city centre, Highcliffe, Winnall and Stanmore.

Cllr Batho's motion, presented to the full council on January 18, calls for the campaign to be discussed across a wider area across the district.

Cllr Batho said: “Winchester City Council has historically taken a lead in implementing 20 mph zones in Hampshire – implementing the city centre zone and the Highcliffe and Winnall 20 mph zones – alongside the Hampshire County Council-initiated zone in Stanmore – in 2014.

“Winchester City Council has worked in partnership with Hampshire County Council to develop the movement strategy which provides a framework for active travel related infrastructure within the city area. 

“Active travel is further promoted in the city and district by local cycling and walking infrastructure plans. 

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“In conjunction with Hampshire County Council a bid has been recently submitted for funding of a ‘Mini Holland” to develop additional schemes to encourage active travel.

“Last year Hampshire County Council initiated a review of 20 mph speed limits and conclusions from that are due to be decided upon later this year.

“A campaign organised by 20’s Plenty for Hampshire has generated a high level of support from parish councils in the Winchester district.

“High vehicle speeds blight communities. Lower speeds save lives and lower pollution. I'm asking that we express support for the 20 is Plenty campaign.”

Cllr Paula Ferguson said: “I want 20mph to be the norm and higher speeds to be the exception.”

Cllr Chris Westwood said: “We need to change the mindset of drivers. In Winchester, the car is not king.”

The council agreed to pass the motion.