Unreasonable Span of the 20MPH limit

I am writing to formally object to the proposed introduction of a 20mph speed limit on Mannachie Road, Forres, and to request that this proposal be reconsidered.

Mannachie Road is a mile-long road situated on the outskirts of Forres. Unlike the town centre streets and residential areas where reduced speed limits are entirely appropriate and well-justified, Mannachie Road is a peripheral rural route with characteristics that make a 20mph limit unnecessary, disproportionate, and potentially counterproductive.

I would ask the Council to consider the following points:

1. Location and road character – As an outskirts road rather than a built-up urban street, Mannachie Road does not present the same pedestrian density, school proximity, or junction complexity that typically justifies a 20mph zone. The existing speed limit is appropriate for the nature of the road and its surroundings.

2. Lack of evidence of danger – I would welcome clarification on what collision data, near-miss records, or resident complaints have been used to justify this proposal. If no significant safety concerns have been identified, the case for reducing the speed limit is considerably weakened.

3. Traffic flow and practical impact – Reducing the speed limit on a mile-long road on the edge of town will add delay for commuters, tradespeople, and local residents going about their daily lives, with little demonstrable benefit. There is also a risk of driver frustration leading to less attentive driving.

4. Enforcement – A limit perceived as unreasonable by drivers is one that tends to be widely ignored, rendering it ineffective and a poor use of public resources to enforce.

I respectfully urge the Council to review the evidence base for this proposal and to engage meaningfully with local residents before proceeding. If there are specific safety concerns on Mannachie Road, I would encourage the Council to explore targeted measures — such as improved signage, road markings, or junction improvements — rather than a blanket speed reduction.

I would be grateful for acknowledgement of this message and to be kept informed of any consultation process or decision made regarding this matter.

Chrisanthe