A20 temporary speed limits need investigating
New information has very recently come to light about the implementation of the temporary speed limits on the A20 at the Sidcup by-pass, which were in place between October 2023 and October 2024. The new information implies that the original traffic order to enable the temporary speed reduction was invalid.
On February 13th 2025, London Assembly Members voted by 16 votes to 3 in support of a motion calling on “the Mayor of London to launch an independent investigation” into the temporary speed limits.
Today, the London Assembly has reiterated its call for an independent investigation, recognising that it is necessary to restore confidence in Transport for London and agrees that the independent investigation should start immediately.
Thomas Turrell AM, who proposed the motion, said:
"The calls for an independent investigation are too loud to ignore.
“I want to thank the Assembly for supporting my motion calling on the authorities to finally look into how this scandal has been able to unfold, and what can be done to support motorists wrongly penalised.
“We must ensure justice for Londoners."
Elly Baker AM, who seconded the motion, said:
“It's important that Transport for London makes decisions about speed limits in the right way and that drivers can have confidence that they are enforced fairly.
That's why the Assembly has again called for an independent investigation to establish the facts, those affected get the answers they deserve, and any lessons are learnt.”
The full text of the motion is:
This Assembly notes that on 13th February 2025, London Assembly Members voted by 16 votes to 3 in support of a motion calling on “the Mayor of London to launch an independent investigation into the implementation of the temporary speed limits on the A20 at the Sidcup by-pass, which were in place between October 2023 and October 2024.”
This Assembly further notes that following an exclusive in The Telegraph on 1st November new information has very recently come to light which implies that the original traffic order to enable the temporary speed reduction was invalid.
This Assembly believes that there have been clear issues with the process and believe that TfL cannot reasonably mark its own homework.
In the light of this new information, this Assembly reiterates its previous call for an independent investigation, recognises that such an investigation is necessary to restore confidence in Transport for London and agrees that the independent investigation should start immediately.
The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.
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Notes to editors
- The Motion was agreed by 18 votes for and 0 against.
- Thomas Turrell AM, who proposed the motion, is available for interview.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For more information, please contact Alison Bell in the Assembly Media Office on 07887 832 918 or [email protected]. For out of hours media enquiries please call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer.