Motorists in Cumbria have been warned of new 20mph speed limits set to roll out across the region this spring, despite opposition to the rules.
Westmorland and Furness Council has given final approval to 24 new schemes which will see the lower speed limits gradually introduced across the area, bringing the total number of 20mph schemes to 44.
The changes mean more streets in towns and villages will be covered by lower speed limits, following public consultations and votes by local council boards.
The council stated the limits are designed to make streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, particularly around schools and in built-up residential areas where the current limit is 40mph or less.
The lower speeds follow a consultation, which saw more than 5,200 residents submit responses last year, with a further 233 responses received during the statutory consultation later in 2025.
Despite mixed views in some areas, councillors agreed there was enough support overall for the schemes to go ahead with cutting speeds.
Councillor Peter Thornton explained how the measures were being introduced at the request of local communities who warned of the impact higher speeds have on road safety.
He said: "This brings the total number of 20mph schemes we have introduced across Westmorland and Furness to 44. 44 communities have requested that these measures be taken, and where the streets will be safer for all.
Westmorland and Furness Council said it would only introduce 20mph zones following public backing
| PA/GETTY"Not only have communities requested these schemes be introduced through our new streamlined route, but thousands of people have engaged with the process and helped shape them.
"We also pledged to only take on schemes where there was demonstrated community support. This was a crucial part of the process, and I am delighted to see these schemes go forward."
The new limits will be introduced in stages across Furness, Eden and South Lakeland. In the Furness area, all eight previously proposed schemes have been approved.
Only 26 formal objections or comments were received during the statutory consultation, and the schemes were approved as advertised.
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New 20mph speed limits will be rolled out across the region this spring
| PAIn Eden, new 20mph limits will be introduced in villages including Clifton, Gamblesby, Glassonby, Great Asby, Greystoke, Sockbridge and Tirril, and Stainton.
Penrith saw one of the largest responses, with more than 9,000 households contacted and 764 people replying.
While 46 per cent supported the proposals, a staggering 40 per cent of responses were against lowering the speed limit.
Council officers said feedback from the Castletown area was "inconclusive", leading to the decision to remove it from the current plans and consult on it again separately later this year.
Motorists can be fined £100 for driving over the 20mph limit | PAIn South Lakeland, schemes in Cartmel, Greenodd and Penny Bridge, Heversham, Ings, Levens, Milnthorpe and Satterthwaite were all approved.
Councillor Thornton confirmed that more schemes will be brought forward later in the year to be consulted on.
"I would urge as many people as possible to engage with the consultation and help us ensure that how we proceed reflects what the community wants," he added.
The council added that a public consultation on the next round of proposed 20mph limits will begin later this year.