Read the results of the consultation of the Torquay town centre 20mph zone extension.
An informal consultation on a proposal to extend the 20mph zone in Torquay town centre to include Fleet Street and Pimlico and connected roads was carried out between 16 January and 8 February 2026. An online survey was published and paper copies were placed in Torquay Library.
Respondents were asked if they supported or opposed the proposal, and there was an opportunity to comment by giving a reason for the answer. 365 responses were received in total - 364 to the online survey and one survey on paper. Of the 365 responses, 166 (45%) were to support and 199 (55%) were to oppose. The results of the Consultation were reported to the Council’s Highways team for consideration.
This is the introduction to the survey:
A proposal has been brought forward to extend a mandatory 20mph zone into Fleet Street and Pimlico in Torquay town centre.
This is to improve pedestrian safety along Fleet Street and Pimlico, which is already traffic calmed with speed humps.
The extended area would link the 20mph limit into the existing one on the Strand to include much of the main shopping and retail area of Torquay town centre.
Consultation about the proposals will take place from Friday 16 January 2026 to midnight on Sunday 8 February 2026.
Please answer the questions below. All answers and comments will be taken into account before a decision is made on progressing the proposals.
You can find out more about the scheme including a map of the zone on our website.
The following analysis of the comments was carried out with the assistance of Microsoft CoPilot to ensure efficient use of time and resources. The results have been reviewed and checked to confirm accuracy by an Engagement and Communications Officer.
The consultation received a high volume of responses with a broad range of views.
Support is led by safety and place-based benefits.
Opposition reflects concerns about necessity, cost, and impact on drivers.
Enforcement is a key issue raised consistently.
Strong support relates to reducing collision risk in a busy pedestrian environment. Many respondents highlight near-misses and informal crossing behaviour.
Respondents emphasise benefits for older people, disabled users, and children. Lower speeds are seen as improving confidence and accessibility.
Concerns about speeding, rat-running, and delivery drivers are common. The proposal is seen as helping regulate driver behaviour.
Support is often conditional on effective enforcement, including cameras or active monitoring.
Some respondents link the scheme to improved visitor experience and a more attractive environment.
The most common concern. Respondents feel 20mph limits are expanding too widely without clear justification.
Many believe existing congestion and road layout already limit speeds.
Respondents suggest funds should be used for road repairs and other priorities.
Requests for accident data and justification are frequent.
Some view the proposal as part of wider restrictions on motorists.
Respondents highlight poor enforcement of existing restrictions.
Road layout and congestion are seen as naturally limiting speeds.
Stakeholders feedback has been produced by analysis of comments using self-descriptions by those who completed the survey.
Engagement with stakeholders broadly aligns with themes identified in public responses, but with clearer focus on operational and strategic considerations.
Local businesses and traders raise mixed views.
Some support improved safety and a more pedestrian-friendly environment, particularly in high footfall areas.
Others express concern about accessibility, visitor numbers, and potential impact on trade.
There is a strong emphasis on maintaining ease of access for deliveries and customers.
Businesses are supportive of safer streets but are cautious about measures that may reduce accessibility or deter visitors. They emphasise the need for balance between safety and economic activity.
Feedback highlights practical considerations around implementation.
Strong focus on enforcement and compliance.
Concerns about existing unauthorised vehicle access, particularly in pedestrianised areas.
Recognition that current restrictions are not consistently followed.
Stakeholders emphasise that enforcement is critical. Without it, the proposed changes are unlikely to achieve meaningful impact.
Feedback supports the proposal in principle.
Strong emphasis on improving safety for disabled users and older people.
Support for lower speeds in shared or pedestrian priority areas.
Recognition of current challenges navigating busy town centre spaces.
This group strongly supports measures that reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety. They prioritise accessibility and inclusion.
Feedback reflects the wider consultation themes.
Support for improved safety and reduced speeding.
Concerns about overuse of 20mph limits and wider rollout.
Frustration about lack of enforcement of existing rules.
Residents are divided. Safety benefits are recognised, but trust in delivery and justification is mixed.
Across all groups, enforcement is identified as a key issue.
Fleet Street is frequently described as being misused by unauthorised vehicles.
Delivery drivers and short-cut traffic are commonly cited.
There is strong agreement that enforcement is essential.
The informal consultation was carried out to gauge public opinion and the responses highlight strong support for improved safety, particularly for pedestrians and vulnerable users.
However, concerns remain regarding necessity and enforcement. The results of the informal consultation have been sent to the Council’s Highways team for consideration.