Plans to reduce the 40mph speed limit to 30mph on Havant Road have been met with anger and frustration from residents. Hampshire County Council are currently in consultation and are inviting people to come forward in response to the proposal.
In light of a recent traffic survey which revealed the amount of injuries caused on this stretch of road from July 2008 (28 total) the suggestion was put forward and has been met with lots of opinion.
Concerns have also been raised about West Lane being used as a rat run for those determined to cut minutes from their journey times if the reduction came into effect. The route is already an accident black spot and a ruling in favour of the speed restriction could increase problems.
There are also arguments from residents about slower journeys off the island. Hayling councillor Andy Lenaghan commented: Im a cyclist and a motorist. As a cyclist I would probably feel safer with the restrictions but as a motorist I would find it very frustrating. Its a long old haul up to Havant at 30mph and Im not convinced its needed. Ive got reservations about it. If you get stuck behind somebody on a clear road doing 25mph to 30pm its really frustrating and to have that all the time I would feel is unwarranted.
There are stretches where it can be justified such as Stoke village but not all the way. I prefer the status quo.
The proposal according to Councillor Sean Woodward already has the support of Hampshire Constabulary.
You can see what other Hayling locals think of the idea by visiting our forum thread https://hayling.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=46681 and Facebook posts on the situation https://www.facebook.com/haylingisland
You can give your opinion by contacting Stuart Jarvis director of economy transport and environment The Castle Winchester SO23 8UD quoting reference or email public.notices@hants.gov.uk quoting C700/MB by March 7.
