Speed limits on many rural roads could be cut from 60mph to 40mph under new government proposals.
Local councils will be advised to introduce 40mph limits on roads with many bends or junctions or where there are "a considerable number" of cyclists, pedestrians, horse-riders or motorcyclists.
The road safety minister, Mike Penning, said "40mph limits should be considered for sections of rural roads where there are many bends, junctions or accesses, and speeds are already at 40mph or below," adding that "it is vital that speed limits are suitable for local conditions."
According to figures from the Department for Transport, rural roads with 60mph limits are the most dangerous in the country, with nearly 7 out of every 10 road deaths occurring on these roads.
What do you think of the proposals? Is 60mph too fast on some rural roads, or is this just another case of nanny-state meddling? Leave your thoughts below.
