Gorslas, Llandybie and Cross Hands 20mph signs vandalised

The introduction of the 20mph speed limit throughout Wales has had mixed reviews with many people welcoming the introduction of the lower speed limit with the aim of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries from collisions.

But many others have shared their frustration at the limit and the way it has been handled throughout the nation.

Tens of thousands of people have signed a petition calling for the blanket speed limit to be scrapped, and contacting local MPs.

Defaced sign in Llandybie (Image: Stuart Ladd)

Others have taken to more extreme measures including arranging ‘go slow’ protests on the M4 this past weekend and vandalising 20mph signs. It has also led to a number of potentially dangerous moments, with some drivers continuing to drive over the speed limit, tailgating those who are sticking to the limits or overtaking dangerously, which could lead to accidents.

Across Wales, signs have been vandalised, and this has been seen in Llandybie, Cross Hands and Glanaman, with the signs daubed in paint.

This move has been slammed by those who are for and against the 20mph limits.

Adam Price, MS for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, who has openly welcomed and praised the way the 20mph roll out has been handled by deputy minister for transport Lee Waters, called the vandalism concerning, particularly with the Blaenau Road, Llandybie sign, after raising in the Senedd his own personal trauma at the death of his cousin on that road when they were children after he was hit by a car.

Defaced sign in Gorslas (Image: Stuart Ladd)

Mr Price said: “It is very concerning to see signs being vandalised in the local area. Irrespective of people’s opinions on this policy, which is well intentioned, it is not an excuse to damage signage and damage public property. I was personally very disappointed to see the sign on Blaenau Road in Llandybie defaced, as I outlined in my contribution to the debate in the Senedd last week.”

He continued that the policy on the 20mph will be under continuous review and called for those who are frustrated to not resort to ‘personal attacks or criminal behaviour.’

Mr Price continued: “Whilst the Welsh Government are doing the right thing, that is not to say that they are doing everything right. I would implore those who are frustrated by the recent law changes to refrain from this kind of activity, as the policy is going to be under continuous review thanks to a Plaid Cymru amendment last month.

“Listening and re-evaluating are an essential part of politics, but so is disagreement without resorting to personal attacks or criminal behaviour.”

Cross Hands' 20mph sign defaced. (Image: Stuart Ladd)

Jonathan Edwards, MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, has voiced his opposition to the limit but said: “Although I don’t condone vandalism, the reality is the whole matter has been dealt with in a cackhanded manner by the Welsh Government. In my 14 years as a Member of Parliament I have never received so many emails on a subject that isn’t part of an organised lobby from individuals who were contacting their elected representative for the first time.

“The manner in which Senedd Members have passed the buck onto county councils is completely cowardly and I fear Senedd Members have given those who oppose devolved politics an early Christmas present.”

Carmarthenshire County Council and Dyfed-Powys Police have been contacted for comment.