A 20mph speed limit could be rolled out across Merton in the next four years, but campaigners say that it is still a long time to wait.

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing and Transport Cllr Martin Whelton told a full council meeting on September 12 that he was in support of lowering the speed limit in the borough.

Speaking on behalf of Merton Lib Dems, Cllr Anthony Fairclough said: “A couple of times we have heard rumours of a 20 mph zones but there is scant evidence of any ambition or any plans.

“Back in 2012 Merton Liberal Democrats proposed a borough-wide default 20mph speed limit on residential roads

“This has various safety benefits encourages walking and cycling it’s easy to understand and if there are collisions it limits the risk of serious harm and injuries.

“By limiting the need to acceleration and breaking it reduces fuel consumption and therefore Co2 emissions.”

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Cllr Whelton said he would support the change.

He said: “I am in favour of 20mph zones and hopefully during the course of this administration we will roll out 20mph zones across the borough so 20 is going to be plenty.”

Earlier this year Samantha Stimpson started a petition to make Merton the next borough to adopt the lowered speed limits and even, for which 600 people signed.

Ms Stimpson thinks four years is too long to wait.

"It's good news they're behind it, but four years is a long time to wait for the roads to become safer for people who want to enjoy walking, cycling or for children to play outside in Merton," she said.

"I'd like to see a blanket 20mph across the borough implemented sooner, especially as it's part of the Mayor of London's rollout plan and is already happening in neighbouring boroughs successfully.

"It's the way forward for London and we should address it right now. For the safety and health of all the community."