Residents in Bridport have welcomed the speed limit reduction to 20mph in town centre streets.

As previously reported, Bridport is one of five communities in Dorset to have its speed limit reduced to make areas safer.

Last Friday 20mph signs appeared along South Street, West Street and East Street, among other locations. The limit has reduced from 30mph. 

This slows down the majority of traffic through the town centre, including on the streets where the market takes place.

The new 20mph zones are in blue, roads already 20mph are in red (Image: Dorset Council)

There is also a banner on South Street reminding motorists of the new limit, which aims to reduce the risk of collisions.

Residents in Bridport welcomed the change, saying it makes the town safer and friendlier for pedestrians.

Marie Stevens works in the town, so she frequently uses the roads which have been reduced to 20mph.

She said: "I wasn't even aware of it to start until I saw something online.

"We probably won't even notice it because it's pretty slow getting through town anyway.

"It's a good idea and makes it safer for pedestrians to cross."

Marie StevensMarie Stevens (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Vicky Budden, from Bridport, said: "I have found it to be better for using the zebra crossing. That's one of the main things because sometimes you wonder if cars are going to stop because they pull up pretty sharply.

"I think having a 20mph limit is a good thing definitely."

Vicky BuddenVicky Budden (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Terry Smyth, from Symondsbury, said: "I agree with the speed limit.

"I have seen people overtake in places that people crossing would have had no chance.

"There are too many cars around that's the trouble. Too many people being knocked down."

Terry SmythTerry Smyth (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

In a previous statement, Bridport Town Council has shown its support for the Dorset Council scheme.

A town council spokesman said: “We know it won’t be universally popular but it’s worth remembering that there is a 20 per cent chance that a pedestrian will be killed if hit at 30mph, but at 20mph that risk reduces to 2.5 per cent.”