Major change could see drivers hit with new speed limits under rule changes

A MAJOR change could see drivers hit with new speed limits under a set of rule changes.

“Anti-motorist” 20mph limits have become an increasing sight in towns and cities across the UK in recent months.

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But Rishi Sunak is now understood to be considering a crackdown on councils imposing the speed limit.

The move could also limit the powers of local authorities to create other measures such as bus gates – a length of street creating a shortcut for buses.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan plans to have reduced limits on 137 miles of the capital’s roads by the end of next year alone amid accusations he is waging a “war on motorists”.

But Conservative MPs are frustrated by the growing number of 20mph zones and concerned their prevalence, along with other policies aimed at restricting the use of cars, may hinder the party at the next general election.

Motoring groups have also demanded additional action from the PM to target anti-car policies and ­protect cash-strapped drivers.

The Tories successfully defended Boris Johnson’s old seat of Uxbridge and Ruislip in a by-election earlier this month having won votes due to concerns over the expansion of Mr Khan’s ultra-low emissions zone.

The result has driven Conservative MPs to row back on plans such as the 2030 petrol car ban to try to replicate their London win across the country at next year’s General Election.

It comes as the PM has also ordered a review into Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) – where roads are closed to traffic in order to give priority to cyclists and pedestrians.

The aim is to decrease emissions from vehicles while also making it safer for walkers and cyclists.

But LTNs have proven controversial, with critics blasting them for causing congestion on roads where traffic diverts to.

Under current rules, councils can build LTNs under their own powers, meaning efforts to curb them would likely require new legislation.

Mr Sunak accused Labour of being “anti-motorist” in a recent interview and insists he is on the side of drivers.

He said: “I just want to make sure people know that I’m on their side in supporting them to use their cars to do all the things that matter to them.”

Nearly 700,000 car drivers could be liable to pay the daily £12.50 Ulez charge when the scheme expands next month, the RAC revealed.

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