Keeping London Streets Safe for Children: The Role of Speed Bumps

London is home to millions of children who deserve to live in safe neighbourhoods with streets designed to protect them from traffic-related risks. Speed bumps, or “road humps,” have long been recognised as a highly effective tool for reducing vehicle speeds, minimising accidents, and improving safety near schools, parks, and residential areas.

This article explores their role in safeguarding children, outlines who can install them, explains how to request one, and offers practical guidance on ensuring their effective implementation.

The Role of Speed Bumps in Protecting Children

Speed bumps are proven to reduce vehicle speeds, creating safer environments for pedestrians, particularly children. Transport for London (TfL) has implemented various traffic-calming measures, including speed bumps, to enhance road safety. For instance, TfL trialled ‘virtual’ speed bumps in Southwark, which resulted in a reduction of up to 3 mph in vehicle speeds

By slowing vehicles in critical locations such as school zones, parks, and residential streets, speed bumps help children walk, cycle, and play more safely.

In addition to enhancing safety, speed bumps contribute to quieter neighbourhoods by reducing noise pollution and improving the overall quality of life for families.

Who Can Install Speed Bumps in London?

Public Roads

On public roads, the installation of speed bumps is strictly regulated by the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999. Under this legislation:

Only local highway authorities, such as London borough councils, have the legal authority to install speed bumps on public roads.
Private individuals or organisations are prohibited from unilaterally placing speed bumps on public highways.
Speed bumps must comply with specific standards regarding dimensions, placement, and signage to ensure road safety..

Private Roads and Properties

On private roads, including car parks and driveways, property owners have the discretion to install speed bumps. However, best practices and safety standards should still be followed. While the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999 do not apply directly to private roads, they provide a useful reference:

Dimensions: Speed bumps should typically measure between 25mm and 100mm in height and at least 900mm in length.
Placement: Avoid installing speed bumps within 30 metres of pedestrian crossings or near sharp bends to prevent safety risks.
Visibility and Signage: Clear markings and warning signs are crucial to ensure drivers are aware of speed bumps in advance.

Consulting local authorities or legal experts before installation can help ensure compliance with relevant bylaws and minimise liability risks. Once given the go ahead, you can find your perfect speed bump now and start making the area safer.

How to Request Speed Bumps in London

If you believe your neighbourhood would benefit from speed bumps, here’s a step-by-step guide to requesting their installation:

1. Identify the Responsible Authority

Determine whether the road falls under the jurisdiction of your local council. Each London borough has a traffic or highways department responsible for assessing and implementing road safety measures.

2. Engage with the Community

Gather support from your neighbours by collecting signatures or organising community meetings. Many councils require evidence of widespread community backing before considering a request for speed bumps.

3. Submit a Formal Application

Contact your local council to understand their specific procedures for traffic calming requests. Your submission should include:

Evidence of safety concerns, such as traffic speed data or accident records.
Specific locations where speed bumps are needed, such as near schools or parks. Some boroughs, like the London Borough of Hillingdon, provide online forms for submitting these requests.

4. Await Assessment

Once your request is submitted, the council will conduct an evaluation that may include:

Analysing traffic volume and speed data.
Reviewing accident history in the proposed area.
Consulting emergency services to ensure speed bumps do not impede their response times.

5. Participate in Public Consultations

Most councils hold public consultations to gather feedback from residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders. Your participation can help ensure the project’s success.

6. Understand the Outcome

If approved, the council will schedule the installation of speed bumps. If denied, they may offer alternative solutions, such as raised pedestrian crossings, road narrowing, or increased signage.

Benefits of Speed Bumps for London’s Communities

Enhanced Safety: Speed bumps significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of accidents, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity.
Community Wellbeing: Slower traffic creates safer and more enjoyable environments for children, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Noise and Emission Reduction: By curbing excessive speeds, speed bumps help lower noise pollution and reduce vehicle emissions, supporting London’s sustainability goals.

Alternatives to Speed Bumps

If speed bumps are deemed unsuitable for a specific area, councils may explore other traffic-calming measures, including:

Raised pedestrian crossings to improve visibility and prioritise pedestrian safety.
Road narrowing to naturally reduce vehicle speeds.
Increased signage and speed enforcement measures.

Case Studies: Successful Speed Bump Installations in London

Example 1: Camden Borough

The London Borough of Camden introduced speed bumps near several primary schools, resulting in a 40% reduction in traffic-related incidents in these areas over five years. The initiative received positive feedback from parents and teachers alike.

Example 2: Hounslow Borough

Hounslow implemented speed bumps in a residential neighbourhood with a history of speeding complaints. Post-installation surveys revealed improved perceptions of safety and a significant decrease in vehicle speeds.

Conclusion: A Collective Commitment to Safer Streets

Speed bumps are a practical and effective way to protect children and create safer streets across London. Whether installed by local councils on public roads or by property owners on private land, their benefits extend beyond safety to include improved community wellbeing, reduced noise pollution, and support for sustainability initiatives.

For residents, advocating for speed bumps requires collaboration with local authorities and active engagement with your community. By following the proper steps and demonstrating widespread support, you can help ensure that London’s streets remain safe for children and families for generations to come.