Tynwald has approved a phased implementation of 20mph speed limits in residential areas and near schools, following a contentious debate that revealed deep divisions over the DoI’s approach.
The plan will see consultations with local authorities and communities before any changes take effect, addressing criticisms that the process lacked transparency.
Contentious
The debate in large part on whether the DoI had fulfilled its mandate from Tynwald’s 2020 and 2023 resolutions, which called for a report back with recommendations—not an implementation plan.
Critics, led by Onchan MHK Rob Callister, argued the department overstepped by drafting a timeline without proper consultation.
“At no point did this court ask the DOI to roll out 20mph zones across Douglas and Onchan without engagement,” Mr Callister said, accusing the minister of a “political train crash.”
His amendment to halt the plan until further consultation failed, but a compromise amendment by Douglas Central MHK Ann Corlett passed, ensuring expanded local input.
Minister
Minister Dr Michelle Haywood defended the plan, stressing it aligned with Tynwald’s wishes and emphasised safety.
“Twenty-mile-per-hour limits reduce road danger, improve public health, and make streets safer for children and vulnerable users,” she said, citing data showing fewer collisions in existing 20mph zones.
Dr Haywood acknowledged missteps in initial consultations, admitting statutory processes were insufficient.
“We’ve listened. The revised plan includes six-week consultations for each area before installation,” she said, pledging to personally visit every local authority with updated maps.
Local Concerns
MLCs and MHKs raised constituency-specific issues.
Laxey representatives highlighted near-misses near schools, while Onchan residents demanded crossings before speed reductions.
“Why spend £136,000 on signage when children can’t safely cross Birch Hill?” Mr Callister asked, referencing a constituent’s plea.
Mrs Corlett’s amendment, which passed unanimously, mandates:
- Prioritising school zones with 20mph limits.
- Phased consultations for all local authorities.
- Clearer maps and feedback mechanisms.
- Post-installation reviews to adjust measures.
“This isn’t a blanket scheme. It’s about listening to communities,” Mrs Corlett said, urging a balance between safety and local needs.
Enforcement
Some members, like Tim Glover, warned that “signs alone won’t solve problems” without traffic calming measures, while others questioned enforcement, as Police resources for speed monitoring remain limited.
The DoI confirmed the first phase—Douglas and Onchan—will begin consultations this summer, with signs installed by September 2025.
Northern areas follow in autumn, central regions in spring 2026, and southern parishes by summer 2026.
Amendments
Three amendments were proposed and seconded throughout the afternoon.
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