Following a consultation with residents, a spokesperson for Cambridgeshire County Council has confirmed that 20mph zones have been approved for some parts of Huntingdon.

The new scheme means that there will be 20mph speed limits across "most residential streets".

The approved phase will see 20mph zones introduced in West and South Huntingdon from the summer. 

20mph speed limits may then be introduced in residential areas of North Huntingdon and Hartford at a later date after further consultation.

The news comes after local councillors reviewed consultation feedback, which was part of the Traffic Regulation Order process.

The councillors agreed a two-phase approach when they met earlier in March.

A smaller 20mph zone will be introduced in the area, rather than the original proposal which covered the whole town.

At a later date, and subject to local agreement, this 20mph zone may then be expanded to the rest of Huntingdon.

A County Council spokesperson also confirmed that: "All main through routes and industrial roads will retain their existing speed limits."

Councillor Tom Sanderson, councillor for Huntingdon West on Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “Councillor Wilson, Councillor King and I have been speaking to Huntingdon residents about these plans.

"I’m excited about the positive changes that 20mph speed limits should bring to the lives of people in Huntingdon."

Cllr Alex Beckett, chair of the highways and transport committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “Speed kills. Studies have shown even a one mph drop in speed reduces collisions by six per cent.

"Reducing speed limits from 30mph to 20mph can cut pollution by 30 per cent and reduce the chance of a severe or fatal injury in the event of a collision by a staggering 60 per cent.  

“In areas where lower speed limits are introduced, people also become more confident to go out walking and cycling, or use other forms of non-motorised transport. 

“I’m pleased to hear 20mph will soon be rolled out in parts of Huntingdon and see the residents benefitting from safer travel and cleaner air too, which will help create a greener Cambridgeshire for everyone.”