Protesters have named the city streets they say should be spared from a controversial 20mph speed limit.

Unchain the Brighton Motorist has called on Brighton and Hove City Council to rule out seven roads in the city - Shirley Drive, Eastern Road, Portland Road, Roedean Road, Carden Avenue, Braybon Avenue, and Carden Hill.

Yesterday traders in the London Road area of the city gave their backing to the campaign.

Andrew Cheesman boss at City Cabs, plus John Streeter, Jeff Howell, and Per-Eric Hawthorne from Brighton and Hove Streamline, have met with Emma Sheridan project manager for the council's city wide 20mph programme to discuss the plans.

 

MORE:

 

According to documents seen by The Argus, they told Ms Sheridan seven key 'arterial' routes should be withdrawn from the council's proposal.

At the request of the taxi company representatives, Ms Sheridan has agreed to reconsider changing the speed limits on these roads.

Mr Hawthorne said there is no reason to have the 20 mph speed restriction the whole length of these important routes.

He said: “Obviously, we do not oppose the speed restriction in danger areas such as schools. But that is no reason to impose the limit along the whole length of the route. We are arguing for a variable limit. The council has agreed to look again at these routes - but of course there is no guarantee from Ms Sheridan she will listen to us.”

Roy Bardsley, 62, boss at Bardsley's Fish and Chip Shop in Baker Street said traders in London Road are right behind the protest.

He said: “The council's policy is totally ridiculous. Drivers can use common sense and should be able to use their discretion about driving slowly in built up areas. It is not as if you can much faster than 20 miles per hour in the centre of the city. I think the average speed in Brighton and Hove is around 19 miles per hour.”

A council spokeswoman said: “A consultation on the proposed roads to have a 20 mph speed limit is underway. They were indentified after careful consideration and concerns of the local community about speeding. We want to hear your views. You can find more information at brighton-hove.gov.uk/20mph.”