Lower speed limits could be introduced in Chipping Norton.

The town council has applied to be considered in Oxfordshire County Council’s 20mph scheme.

Generally, the scheme would see 30mph zones in residential and pedestrian-heavy areas changed to 20mph.

Councillor Mark Walker, chair of the council’s strategic planning and traffic advisory sub-committee, said: “Chipping Norton Town Council signalled its intent to improve our streets by implementing a 20mph zone through the middle of town in 2019 – we are now delighted that that we have an opportunity to extend this to a much wider area of town with the aim of making our streets feel safer and more welcoming places for pedestrians and cyclists.

“We know from other areas around the country, and internationally that there is a wide acceptance of the benefits of 20mph in terms of reducing pollution, reducing harm caused by collisions with cars and making streets feel more pleasant.”

Oxfordshire County Council claims that the scheme will make streets safer, encourage walking and cycling, and reduce noise and pollution.

Research by the UK Transport Research Laboratory has shown that every 1mph reduction in average urban speeds can result in a six per cent fall in the number of casualties.

The county council also states that research has shown that lower speeds could help with congestion and will not “significantly increase” journey times.

As part of the plan, the Chipping Norton Town Council is looking to get the views from people who live in, and travel to, Chipping Norton.

People are encouraged to share their thoughts on the idea and highlight any roads they feel should be included or excluded should it go ahead.

The Mayor of Chipping Norton, councillor Sandra Coleman, added: “This 20mph initiative gives us the opportunity to extend the current 20mph zone to cover our local schools, areas with many pedestrians, including parents with younger children, and young people making their first independent journeys.

“Please use this consultation to give us your views, so we get the best scheme possible.”

To find out more, or to fill out the survey, visit www.chippingnorton-tc.gov.uk/20mph-survey.