THE next steps have been taken towards a city-wide 20mph speed limit in York after proposals to create two new pilot areas were approved.

Coun Dave Merrett, City of York Council’s cabinet member for city strategy, has agreed plans to extend the reduced limits in the South Bank area of the city as well as introducing them in Murton, which will be used as a trial of the initiative for all villages.

The Labour group, which took control of the authority earlier this year, made an election manifesto pledge to bring in 20mph limits in all of York's residential streets, and Coun Merrett said: “This new approach is about lowering speeds in residential areas and making them safe for the people of York.

“But I’m not being complacent, as encouraging a change in attitudes and culture across the city is no small task.”

The plans will see Bishopthorpe Road, which is used by more than 700 vehicles near the former Terry’s factory and more than 1,100 near local shops between 8am and 9am on weekdays, and adjacent streets being looked at for inclusion in the South Bank pilot.

Murton was chosen after a petition calling for 20mph speed limits in the village was presented to the council last year, and residents and other parties will now be consulted on how the schemes will work.”