Torbay schools adopt permanent 20mph speed zones

New 20mph zones introduced around schools in Torbay are in force 24 hours a day, drivers have been warned.

The new zones near Hayes School and Sacred Heart School in Paignton are in operation around the clock, not just during times when the school is busy. That means they are in force during evenings, weekends and school holidays.

Now drivers have also been warned that police may be enforcing the new limits.

In a social media post the council explained: “Now that children are back at school, we are reminding road users in Paignton about the new school 20mph zones that are in force.

“They are in place to improve safety for everyone at all times, including the many children using the routes.”

The new mandatory 20mph zone for Hayes School covers the area from Hayes Road to St Michaels Road. It also includes some surrounding roads and a section of Totnes Road outside the school.

At Sacred Heart School, the new mandatory 20mph zone includes Cecil Road, part of Colley End Road and some surrounding roads.

The statement went on: “The new zones were supported by the community to improve safety on roads near schools where there is a high level of conflict between pedestrians and traffic.

“Lower speeds in urban areas cut casualties, reduce noise and improve air quality. They allow better visibility and give drivers more time to react to pedestrians.

“The clearly-marked 20mph zones are legally in force 24/7 and can be enforced by the police. Thank you for keeping your speed down and helping to make Paignton a safer place.”

Hayes School and Sacred Heart are among a first phase of Torbay schools to have the 20mph limits.

Paignton Academy, Roselands, Curledge Street and Preston were part of the same consultation process, along with Sherwell Valley and Ilsham school in Torquay.

Other Torbay schools included in the 20mph limits project are Cockington School, Barton Academy, Torquay Academy and St Cuthbert Mayne in Torquay; White Rock Primary School in Paignton; Eden Park Primary School, St Margaret Clitherow School and Chestnut Primary School in Brixham.