View Image

A petition calling for Birmingham’s expressways to return to 40mph speed limits has gained more than 1,250 signatures, but road safety officials insist slower speeds save lives.

The campaign argues that the new 30mph limits on major routes are causing unnecessary traffic and longer journey times. Supporters say the expressways were designed for higher-speed travel and that the council’s changes make little sense.

West Midlands road safety commissioner Mat MacDonald said he understood drivers’ frustrations but stood firm on the need for lower limits. He told BirminghamLive that the evidence for reducing speed was “crystal clear”, adding, “If you had to choose between someone you love being hit at 40mph or 30mph, which would it be? A collision can always happen, but the right

See Full Page