The speed limit on residential roads in north Maidstone should be cut to 20mph.

That is the view of Michelle Hastie, who handed in a petition signed by 134 residents to the Maidstone Joint Transportation Board last Wednesday. She is calling for the limit to be reduced in Hillary Road, The Hedges, Gladstone Road and Peel Street.

Mrs Hastie, a parent of young children and a governor at St Paul’s Infant School, said: “I regularly hear complaints about speeding vehicles posing a danger to children walking to school.

“Our aim with this petition is clear. We would like to see the continuation of the existing 20mph speed zone into these roads, to create a safer route for pedestrians.”

Mrs Hastie, of Boxley Road, said there were three primary schools nearby as well as several nurseries and childcare providers.

She said: “Although many of the children walk to and from school, the parking problems in Hillary Road are exacerbated at school times.

“This results in vehicles frequently being driven on the wrong side of the road at speed. There have been several near misses involving children crossing the road. We feel that a reduction to the speed limit with appropriate signage will go a long way towards addressing these issues and prevent a serious accident involving a young child.”

She cited evidence from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents which said use of 20mph zones was an effective means of reducing casualties.

But she said: “While our main purpose is safety, 20mph restrictions are not just a road safety measure. Creating a safer route may encourage an increase in walking which may contribute to quality of life, and as such benefit health, community cohesion and better air quality.”

The petition found support from county councillor Ian Chittenden (Lib Dem), who said: “Because of the financial cuts, it is unlikely that KCC would normally support this type of scheme themselves, but I am willing to fund it from my county council member’s devolved budget.” The proposal will be examined by officers who will report back to the board.

The proposal will be examined by officers who will report back to the board.