Motorists could see mandatory 20mph speed limits rolled out across five areas in South West England

The move is part of a wider initiative to create safer and healthier streets in local communities where people walk, live and play.

Residents have been told they only have until next week to submit feedback on the lower speed limits before the council announces its final decision.

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The new speed restrictions will affect five specific areas across Dorset, including the villages of Cheselbourne and Child Okeford.Okeford Fitzpaine and Winterborne Kingston are also set to see changes to their speed limits under the proposals.

In Wimborne, the changes will specifically target Allenview Road and Burt's Hill. These locations were selected following applications from their respective parish and town councils.

The schemes aim to create more liveable communities while maintaining practical traffic flow through these areas.

Councillor Jon Andrews said: "We are committed to working with local towns and parishes in response to community concerns about road safety and healthy areas in their towns and villages."

He added: "Limiting speeds to 20mph where people walk, live and play is one way people can benefit from streets that are healthier and safer."

However, the council did note that this is not about implementing blanket 20mph zones across all roads.

Instead, Andrews explained that the process "takes a consistent approach to dealing with applications, with a policy that is: implementable by considering national guidance; affordable, placing minimum strain on council budgets; and enforceable by the Police."

Assessment of the new 20mph schemes follows strict criteria set by Dorset Council, with funding prioritised for high-priority applications.

He acknowledged that while some drivers might ignore the limits, the changes could help improve safety for walkers, riders and cyclists.

The resident also called for an awareness programme, noting that many drivers are unfamiliar with recent Highway Code changes.