Drivers have been warned of a new scheme which will see almost all roads across one of the UK's largest cities experience lower speed limits this year.
It comes after Birmingham City Council revealed it will be lowering speed limits from 40mph to 30mph across the region in a bid to reduce dangerous driving.
Drivers have been urged to slow down as 40mph speed limits are officially scrapped on almost all city routes in drastic new measures.
The Labour-led council said it completed a major project to cut limits from 40mph to 30mph on 27 roads, as part of its drive to make streets safer and more welcoming for everyone.
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The move forms a central part of the city's Road Harm Reduction Strategy, which aims to reduce the number and severity of road traffic collisions and create a transport network that supports healthier lifestyles, cleaner air and more reliable journeys.
The need for action follows reports which found that even small reductions in speed can significantly lower the risk of a collision and reduce the severity of injuries when they occur.
Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: "This is a really important measure to make our roads safer.
"However, it is about so much more than that; we want to encourage sustainable travel and reduce the impact of traffic on our local communities.
The council has officially removed all 40mph speed limits in the city
|GETTY
"Lower speeds mean safer streets, cleaner air and a more resilient transport network for everyone.
"I'd like to thank residents and businesses for their cooperation and patience during the rollout, and the council will continue to monitor the impacts of these positive changes in the months ahead."
While the lower speed limits take effect, drivers have been warned of a minimum fine of a £100 and three penalty points.
This can increase significantly to as much as £1,000, depending on the case, six points or even disqualification.
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Several roads in Birminghamwill be lowered to 30mph from 40mph
| PAWest Midlands Police will be supporting the initiative with education and enforcement activities to help motorists adjust to the new limits.
Officers will also be incorporating these checks into their operations to ensure the benefits of the scheme are fully realised.
Assistant Chief Constable Mike O'Hara, who oversees the Roads Policing Unit at West Midlands Police, said: "We are completely focused on reducing the number of people who are killed and seriously injured on the roads of the West Midlands, and we know that speed is one of the main contributors to serious collisions.
"I'd urge drivers to play their part in reducing those tragic statistics by not exceeding the speed limit so that we make the West Midlands a safer place for all road users."
The council planned to turn 'virtually all roads' in the city centre to 30mph
| BIRMINGHAM CITY COUNCILMayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker said: "I've met families who've lost loved ones to dangerous driving and witnessed the heartbreak it causes. That's why road safety is a top priority for me.
He warned that every life lost is "one too many", with police and enforcement teams still having "much work to do".
Mayor Parker explained that the latest road data showed how the action put in place last year "is beginning to get results" and improve safety for pedestrians and drivers alike.
"So far this year, 100 fewer people have lost their lives or been seriously injured, that's 100 families spared the heartbreak that comes with road traffic collisions," he added.