THE leader of Southend Council has hinted 20mph roads could be rolled out across the city following a successful trial in Leigh.

An 18-month trial in Leigh – including the cut speed limit and “miniature” speed bumps – started in December last year and a public consultation launched in January has found residents are in favour.

The scheme is set to be debated by Southend Council at a meeting next week and if the trial becomes permanent, it could be rolled out further across the city.

Benefits of the slashed speed limit include making busy roads “safer and more pleasant” for residents as well as making streets safer for school children.

Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, said: “I support reduced speed limits in residential areas where the community backs them, especially to improve road safety around schools and quiet streets.

“While there are currently no plans to introduce 20mph speed limits elsewhere, if next week’s meeting approves the proposals in Leigh, this will may help shape future plans and decisions in line with community wishes and requests.”

Bernard Arscott, leader of Leigh Town Council, said the scheme had some drawbacks despite being popular with residents.

He said: ”I know it’s something that has been popular but I’ve had some reservations about this. I understand the intention behind it to improve road safety and make the roads safer for children going to school, but the problem is both Southsea and Lymington Avenue fall into the North Street catchment area.

“Whilst you are slowing traffic down and it will potentially reduce risk of injury or potential fatality, if children get used to 20mph and then they come to Elm Road, which is a 30mph, it gives them a false sense of security.”

Roads included in the trial area are: Salisbury Road, north of Hadleigh Road; Southsea Avenue, north and sort of Glendale Gardens; Lymington Avenue, north and south of Glendale Gardens; Leighville Grove, Grange Road, and Glendale Gardens.

Mr Arscott added: “Unless you make all the roads in the area 20mph I have a concern it could have unintended consequences. Also if someone is going to speed in a 30mph zone. The ones who speed anyway aren’t going to pay attention to it.”