What Bridport residents think of the 20mph speed limit

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

Residents gave their comments, support, or objections to the applications through a process called a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation earlier in the year

In July 20mph signs appeared along South Street, West Street and East Street, among other locations, with the speed limit was reduced from 30mph. 

At the time, residents in Bridport welcomed the change, saying it would make the town safer.

The News caught up with residents on the street to see if the slower speed of traffic has made a noticeable impact.

Marie Stevens, who works in the town, frequently drives upon - and as a pedestrian - crosses the roads which have been reduced to 20mph.

She said: "I would say it has made no difference.

"The main street is very busy, so you can't get more than 10 or 15mph anyway. I have always had to keep the speed down just to be safe."

Marie Stevens (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Deborah Shilling, from Bridport, supports the change, though she hasn't noticed a significant difference.

She said: "I think it is great that it has been changed. I am definitely supportive of it, I think it is a real positive change for the town."

Jonathon Duck, from Bradpole, said: "I think it has made a difference. Everybody has slowed down a bit. For safety, I think it is a good idea.

"A reduction of just ten miles an hour for a mile, it doesn't make a difference (to travel times)."

The 20mph zones (Image: Dorset Council) Another resident, Nicholas, said: "I don't think it has made a difference. There is no enforcement of it. In the summer the town is gridlocked and you have to drive 10mph, it is kind of a joke."

Another resident added: "I probably wasn't in favour of it. During the day when it is busy, you are probably driving at 20 anyway because of the traffic.

"Travelling early in the morning and in the evening nobody else is around so it feels absurd."

Another said: "It has not made a difference, people just ignore it."