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Wales Online
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Calls to cut rural speed limits spark 'nanny state' warning in Wales
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Wrexham's mayor has thrown her support behind proposals to reduce speed limits on rural roads and lanes. A petition has been launched calling on the UK Government to lower the default speed limit on single-carriageway rural roads from 60mph to 30mph. North Wales Live readers are reluctant to see more cuts to speed limits, with many saying enough is enough. The proposal aligns with the view of the roads charity Brake, which points out that rural roads are more dangerous per mile travelled than motorways or urban roads. In Wales, speed limits are set by the Welsh Government, so any changes would be decided in Cardiff rather than Westminster. Cllr Tina Mannering, the current mayor of Wrexham who represents the Gwersyllt East ward, is encouraging people to sign the Westminster petition, describing it as "important". She has long campaigned for lower speed limits on a rural road with a 60mph limit that runs through Alyn Waters Country Park between Llay and Bradley. The narrow and winding road is often used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders, and despite cutting through Wrexham's largest country park, the road has no pavements or footpaths, leaving little room for pedestrians to avoid passing vehicles. Cllr Mannering has described the road as a "race track". Proposals to reduce rural speed limits are likely to divide public opinion. Some drivers argue they already use common sense and adjust their speed depending on road conditions. While local councils can set lower limits, 60mph is still the norm on many country roads. Research shows that a 10 percent increase in average speed on rural roads leads to a 30 percent increase in serious and fatal crashes. Government data shows rural roads, which include most B roads, carry 44 percent of all traffic but account for 33 percent of all casualties and 60 percent of road deaths. Commenter Toxteth O'Grady says: 'Here we go again. Why not do the sensible thing and target accident blackspots instead of punishing everyone?' Iagollewjones agrees: 'It's not fair on locals that know the B roads & back roads well. I can understand during the summer when the tourists do 50mph in their 4 x4's. I use back roads daily during bedlam times, but they're getting more dangerous each year.' Forestdragon adds: 'I hope the Senedd and local councils have learned their lesson and don't meddle in speed limits again.' Indigodebz thinks: 'No speed limit is safe for country lanes, drivers must drive at speeds that match visibility and whether the road is wet or not. I cycle a lot on country lanes and they have become busier since the 20mph came in. I feel more in danger, but not from the speed, it's the increase in traffic that I'm in fear of.' Fairplayforall complains: 'The whole country is turning into a nanny state. What happened to personal responsibility and decision making? Just too much control.' Mrrogerdodger replies: 'Sadly, there are too many people who cannot demonstrate personal responsibility or sound decision-making. If it were just them affected by this then let them do it. Unfortunately this can often lead to other people being affected and not in a good way. If people don't want a nanny state, don't give the government a reason to implement one.' Johnnygiraffe adds: 'The speed limit may be 60mph but it doesn't mean you have to drive at 60mph. By all means regulate those who are unable to think for themselves but do it in a way that doesn't affect those of us who can.' Damojo writes: '60 is the limit, not a target to be attained. All sensible drivers are aware of this and for their own safety, drive at a speed suitable for the road. Nutters who drive at high speed on such roads would continue to do so even with a limit.' Planemaker wonders: 'Has the Mayor seen the state the roads are in? If you can do more than 30 on most without wrecking a wheel or suspension you're lucky! Let's have them focus on the real issues, dying high streets, lack of housing and parking charges.' Totemlad1 grumbles: 'Why don't they go the whole hog and make it walking pace in the whole of Wales?' Would cutting speed limits to 30mph make country roads safer? Share your thoughts below in our comments section.
North Wales Live
2 days ago
- Automotive
- North Wales Live
Calls to cut rural speed limits spark 'nanny state' warning in Wales
Wrexham's mayor has thrown her support behind proposals to reduce speed limits on rural roads and lanes. A petition has been launched calling on the UK Government to lower the default speed limit on single-carriageway rural roads from 60mph to 30mph. North Wales Live readers are reluctant to see more cuts to speed limits, with many saying enough is enough. The proposal aligns with the view of the roads charity Brake, which points out that rural roads are more dangerous per mile travelled than motorways or urban roads. In Wales, speed limits are set by the Welsh Government, so any changes would be decided in Cardiff rather than Westminster. Cllr Tina Mannering, the current mayor of Wrexham who represents the Gwersyllt East ward, is encouraging people to sign the Westminster petition, describing it as "important". She has long campaigned for lower speed limits on a rural road with a 60mph limit that runs through Alyn Waters Country Park between Llay and Bradley. The narrow and winding road is often used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders, and despite cutting through Wrexham's largest country park, the road has no pavements or footpaths, leaving little room for pedestrians to avoid passing vehicles. Cllr Mannering has described the road as a "race track". Proposals to reduce rural speed limits are likely to divide public opinion. Some drivers argue they already use common sense and adjust their speed depending on road conditions. While local councils can set lower limits, 60mph is still the norm on many country roads. Research shows that a 10 percent increase in average speed on rural roads leads to a 30 percent increase in serious and fatal crashes. Government data shows rural roads, which include most B roads, carry 44 percent of all traffic but account for 33 percent of all casualties and 60 percent of road deaths. Commenter Toxteth O'Grady says: 'Here we go again. Why not do the sensible thing and target accident blackspots instead of punishing everyone?' Iagollewjones agrees: 'It's not fair on locals that know the B roads & back roads well. I can understand during the summer when the tourists do 50mph in their 4 x4's. I use back roads daily during bedlam times, but they're getting more dangerous each year.' Forestdragon adds: 'I hope the Senedd and local councils have learned their lesson and don't meddle in speed limits again.' Indigodebz thinks: 'No speed limit is safe for country lanes, drivers must drive at speeds that match visibility and whether the road is wet or not. I cycle a lot on country lanes and they have become busier since the 20mph came in. I feel more in danger, but not from the speed, it's the increase in traffic that I'm in fear of.' Fairplayforall complains: 'The whole country is turning into a nanny state. What happened to personal responsibility and decision making? Just too much control.' Mrrogerdodger replies: 'Sadly, there are too many people who cannot demonstrate personal responsibility or sound decision-making. If it were just them affected by this then let them do it. Unfortunately this can often lead to other people being affected and not in a good way. If people don't want a nanny state, don't give the government a reason to implement one.' Johnnygiraffe adds: 'The speed limit may be 60mph but it doesn't mean you have to drive at 60mph. By all means regulate those who are unable to think for themselves but do it in a way that doesn't affect those of us who can.' Damojo writes: '60 is the limit, not a target to be attained. All sensible drivers are aware of this and for their own safety, drive at a speed suitable for the road. Nutters who drive at high speed on such roads would continue to do so even with a limit.' Planemaker wonders: 'Has the Mayor seen the state the roads are in? If you can do more than 30 on most without wrecking a wheel or suspension you're lucky! Let's have them focus on the real issues, dying high streets, lack of housing and parking charges.' Totemlad1 grumbles: 'Why don't they go the whole hog and make it walking pace in the whole of Wales?'
North Wales Live
4 days ago
- Politics
- North Wales Live
Calls to cut country road speed limits to 30mph backed by North Wales mayor
Wrexham's mayor has thrown her weight behind moves to lower speed limits on all rural roads and lanes. A petition has been launched calling on the UK Government to cut the default speed limit on single-carriageway rural roads from 60mph to 30mph. The proposal is in line with the approach adopted by roads charity Brake. It notes that, per mile travelled, rural roads are more dangerous that motorways and urban roads. The Welsh Government is responsible for setting speed limits in Wales, meaning any change to the rules here would be determined in Cardiff as opposed to Westminster. As Wrexham's current mayor, Cllr Tina Mannering, who represents the Gwersyllt East ward, is urging constituents to sign the Westminster petition, saying it was 'important'. She's long campaigned for safer limits on a country road with a 60mph limit that runs right through Alyn Waters Country Park between Llay and Bradley. The narrow, twisty lane, is often used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Despite cutting through Wrexham 's largest country park, the road lacks pavements or walkways for its entire length, leaving little room for pedestrians to escape speeding vehicles. Cllr Mannering described it as a 'race track'. The petition, launched by Rhiannon Vivian, runs until November 13 and has so far collected 1,079 signatures. This includes 190 from Wales, a country criss-crossed with country roads that's already taken controversial steps to cuts speeds in built-up areas. Moves to halve default speeds on rural roads are likely to split opinion. In an online debate centred on the Ceiriog Valley near Chirk, one driver refused to sign the petition on the basis it was an 'absolutely asinine piece of nanny state crap'. He added: 'Why should the whole population be penalised for the actions of few idiots?' When it comes to country roads, many people say they use common sense and drive to the conditions. One man noted that 'no one in their right mind' would try to drive at 60mph along these roads. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Although local authorities can set lower speed limits, 60mph limits remain commonplace on rural roads. The petition points to a study which estimated a 10% increase in average speeds on these roads results in a 30% increase in fatal and serious crashes. UK Government figures show that rural roads – which include most B roads – carry 44% of all traffic but are responsible for 33% of all casualties and 60% of all fatalities. Rhiannon wrote: 'I think the fact that drivers can legally do 60mph is absolute negligence and shows a disregard for human life. Cyclists, motorcyclists and car drivers are more than three times as likely to be killed per mile travelled on a rural road than an urban road.' On social media, Wrexham councillor Trevor Bates also questioned the default limit. He wrote: 'It does seem silly having national speed limits on some of our narrowest bendiest steepest and potholiest lanes.' Earlier this year the Ceiriog Valley was turned into a pothole 'theme park' in a tongue-in-cheek dig to highlight the area's rutted and pitted country roads. Although some routes were eventually fixed by Wrexham Council (WCBC), one local resident suspects the lack of maintenance is deliberate. 'It is impossible to drive at more than 10mph or 20mph on some lanes, and even 5mph on the worst stretches,' she said. 'I'm sure WCBC will consider potholes a much cheaper method of slowing down traffic, saving them the expense of putting up loads more signs!' Refusing to sign the petition is a man who said there were 'enough bloody rules in this country already'. Likewise, a woman doubted 30mph could be enforced and doubted it would stop the 'idiots'. Threatening to prejudice the debate is Wales' 20mph policy in built-up areas. In 2024, more than 85,000 motorists were caught breaking the limit and the measure continues to divide opinion. Commenting on the rural speed limit debate, one man sighed: 'I may as well buy a horse and cart.' Subsequent revisions to the 20mph rule are fanning the flames, with motorists complaining of regular speed changes – particularly when crossing county boundaries. Wrexham Council alone has agreed to rescind 20mph limits on 52 sections of highway in a move that will cost hundreds of thousands of pounds. Some people believe that focusing on new footpaths and cycle lanes on country roads would make more sense than cutting the speed limit. But others fully support the idea, with a Denbighshire man describing 60mph rural limits as 'madness'. Already there's been a minor surge of support for the idea following Cllr Mannering's intervention, with 28 Wrexham residents signing the petition, along with nine from Clwyd East. Enthusiasm is less pronounced in other parts of North Wales, with eight signatures in Dwyfor Meirionnydd, five in Alyn and Deeside and four each in Anglesey and Bangor Aberconwy. Backing the idea was a Llanarmon DC resident who noted that rules are 'what makes civilised societies'. He added: 'Frankly, it's incredibly disappointing that those who shout and rant against a rule that would make everyone safer, seem to win the day."
Leader Live
24-06-2025
- General
- Leader Live
Wrexham: Military tribute paid for Armed Forces Week
This year, Armed Forces Week takes place between Monday, June 23 to Sunday, June 29. (Image: Wrexham Council) The council raised flags above the Guildhall to show the city's support for the men and women who make up Wrexham's armed forces community. Flying the flag is a symbol of support, recognising the dedication of the military across the UK. Read more Wrexham Mayor, Councillor Tina Mannering, said: 'We are flying the Armed Forces Flag to recognise and thank our Armed Forces and their families for the sacrifices, commitment, dedication and patriotism they make whilst serving our country. 'Wrexham has many strong links with the armed forces, and this is evidenced when there are celebratory and commemorative events in our city where people line the streets and gather in significant numbers to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of the armed forces and their families. 'We sleep because they stay awake'
Leader Live
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Wrexham: Road closures confirmed for HMS Dragon parade
Watched by local dignitaries – and hopefully many local residents – the crew of the Type 45 destroyer will march through the heart of the city centre before being hosted at an official reception to cement the bond. Ahead of the parade the ranks will be inspected by Wrexham's Mayor Councillor Tina Mannering, who will also take the salute of the marching sailors at Queens Square alongside Commanding Officer Commander Iain Giffin. Commander Iain Giffin said: 'There is no greater honour that a city can bestow than the Freedom of the City and I humbled that Wrexham has extended this privilege to HMS Dragon. HMS Dragon Ship (Image: Wrexham Council) 'Today is a proud moment for HMS Dragon and a fitting opportunity to demonstrate the professionalism of our sailors, marching in full ceremonial dress, with drums beating, flags flying and bayonets fixed, as a mark of respect and gratitude to the people of Wrexham.' Cllr Mannering, said: 'It will be a tremendous honour to take the salute of the sailors as they march through the city, and I hope as many people as possible will turn out to support the parade. 'This will be a fantastic occasion, as we celebrate our wonderful partnership with HMS Dragon.' Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Beverley Parry-Jones, added: 'Wrexham has always been proud of its links with the armed services and it will be wonderful to welcome the crew to the county borough, so they can celebrate the Freedom of the City. 'HMS Dragon is the first ship affiliated with Wrexham since the Second World War, and we are tremendously proud of this very special relationship.' The sailors will march onto Llwyn Isaf green (outside the Guildhall) at 10.40am, before marching through the city centre. In being named Freemen of Wrexham, the sailors are in select company including Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. There will be some temporary road closures and access restrictions in place from 10.55am on the day (Friday June 13), including… Chester Street closure There will be a full road closure on Chester Street until 11.15am. During this time, there will be no vehicle access to the following locations via Chester Street: Guildhall Waterworld Memorial Hall Wellbeing Hub Crown Buildings Library Courts Additionally, no vehicles will be able to exit the Guildhall or Library car parks during this period. The remainder of the parade route will be managed via rolling road closures, meaning traffic will be temporarily stopped as the parade passes. This disruption should last approximately 10 to 15 minutes per location. MOST READ During this time, there will be no vehicle access through the city centre bollards – this includes taxis, church access and other usual exceptions. The ship was adopted by Wrexham last summer and civic leaders promptly bestowed their highest honour upon the Portsmouth-based warship and her ship's company. Their hectic schedule – which included a milestone first takedown of a supersonic missile by the Royal Navy during NATO exercises off the coast of northwest Scotland in May – has prevented the ship's company from exercising their right until now. Since then, when Dragon's demanding programme has allowed, the 200-strong ship's company have been preparing for the hometown visit, including undertaking specific drill training to reach the highest standards required for the march.
