Paignton 20mph school zone goes live as Torbay expands traffic safety measures

The first of the latest phase of 20mph school zones in Torbay is now up and running, with signs installed at Paignton Academy and surrounding streets.

The scheme marks the first of five new zones proposed following strong public support during consultation last year. The remaining zones, which are progressing through the legal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) process, include: Roselands School, Preston Primary School, Sherwell Valley Primary School and Ilsham Church of England Academy.

Lower vehicle speeds in school areas are proven to improve road safety for all users by reducing the number and severity of collisions. Slower speeds also give drivers more time to react to pedestrians, helping protect children and staff travelling to and from school.

Torbay Council has already implemented six 24/7 school 20mph zones across Torquay and Paignton last year. The new zones are part of a wider programme of TROs being introduced across the Bay to control traffic flow and ensure safer, more convenient parking for residents.

Other proposed and recently implemented TROs in Paignton include Blatchcombe Road, Broadsands Park Road, Manor Crescent, Torquay Road, Upper Manor Road, Davies Avenue, Gibson Road, Hennock Road, and Roselands Drive. In Torquay, TROs cover areas such as The Terrace, Audley Avenue, Cary Avenue, Higher and Lower Audley Avenue, Daddyhole Road, St Marks Road, and sections of Fleet Street, Braddons Hill Road West, and The Strand.

Residents can submit objections or support for each proposal by writing to the address specified in the relevant Notice of Proposals before the deadline. Substantial objections are reviewed by Torbay Council’s Transport Working Party Committee, which decides whether to proceed with, modify, or abandon each scheme.

The council says these measures are part of an ongoing commitment to improving road safety around schools and enhancing the overall safety of the local community.