Under the new guidance, police will routinely enforce 20mph limits, with drivers caught speeding up to 34mph to face a £100 fine and three points, whilst those driving at 35mph or more will be reported to the courts.

In addition, drivers who speed at 24-31mph in 20mph limits will be offered a specially designed speed awareness course (in lieu of penalty points), aimed at educating them on 20mph limits.

The guidance has been welcomed by Brake, which is part of a GO 20 coalition of charities calling for 20mph limits to become the norm across built-up areas, to enable people to walk and cycle for their health and enjoyment, and for cheap and sustainable travel, without being or feeling endangered.

Increasing numbers of authorities are recognising the benefits by implementing 20mph limits across towns and cities. In recent months Birmingham and the City of London have announced they will be joining the many towns, countries, boroughs and cities "GOing 20".

Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive, Brake, the road safety charity, said: ‘This guidance is timely and important. As more and more local authorities introduce widespread 20mph limits, it is critical to get the message across to the driving public that breaking these limits is an offence and will be prosecuted. We welcome tailored 20mph speed awareness courses, which will deliver education to drivers who risk the safety of vulnerable road users by ignoring 20mph limits. This guidance supports work by community campaigners, local authorities and government to increase the use of 20mph limits in built-up areas, to protect people on foot and bike, make our communities safer, more pleasant places, and encourage greater levels of walking and cycling.’