THE MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr has pleaded with the Welsh Government to stop the roll out of the 20mph limit across the whole of Wales.

On Sunday, September 17, Wales will lower the default speed limit from 30mph to 20mph.

As Wales becomes one of the first nations to pass this legislation, MP Jonathan Edwards is calling for this to be stopped, stating that the £33m it is estimated to cost could be better spent on improving the state of roads.

Mr Edwards said: “Over the summer I have visited a number of communities in Carmarthenshire to speak to people directly and the new 20mph speed limit has been raised consistently.

“I have also been inundated with correspondence from constituents expressing strong objections to this policy change by the Welsh Government.

“It is a burning hot topic in our communities. Constituents tell me how out of touch Senedd Members in Cardiff are in pushing forward these proposals. With the NHS on its knees, my own personal view is that the Senedd Members should be concentrating on making sure people can see their GP and access public dentistry.

“I am very concerned with how this scheme will be policed – with police resources already stretched and under resourced.

“There is merit in implementing the policy in large urban areas such as Cardiff, Swansea and Newport as a slower speed helps limit congestion. I am not convinced that this is a priority for rural areas such as Carmarthenshire. I am hoping the Welsh Government will see sense and take a more flexible approach going forward and its time for the areas Senedd Members to speak up.”

Adam Price, MS for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, said: “As a member of Plaid Cymru and the Senedd, I support the introduction of these speed limits as a means of promoting road safety and reducing the number of accidents in our communities. However, I also understand that this is a matter that must ultimately be decided by local authorities, and I acknowledge the different perspectives and challenges that each community may face.

"The safety of our residents is of utmost importance, and research has shown that a reduction in speed limits can have a significant impact on reducing the severity of road accidents. It is also an important step in creating more liveable and sustainable communities, where people feel safe to walk and cycle on our roads.

"I appreciate the criticism that has been raised about the potential impact of these speed limits on traffic flow and journey times, and I understand that these are important considerations for many. However, I believe that these concerns can be addressed through careful planning and design, and that the benefits of a safer and more sustainable community far outweigh any temporary inconvenience. I would encourage everyone to engage with the local authority on this matter, and to voice any concerns and opinions.”

Mr Edwards is not alone in his views as an online petition against the 20mph roll out has been signed by more than 62,000 people across Wales.