Transport for London’s plans for a 20mph speed limit in central London have been given the go-ahead – backed up by recalibrated speed cameras and mobile speed units.

Work will begin later this year to make 5.5 miles of TfL roads 20mph in central London

Greenlighted after a consultation showed widespread public support, the measure will see 20mph speed limits introduced on all TfL’s roads in the Congestion Charge Zone by early 2020 – mirroring the lower speed limits already in place on the majority of borough roads in the central London area.

The move is a key part of the Mayor’s Vision Zero ambition to eliminate death and serious injury from London’s transport network and will bring 20mph limits on 5.5 miles of main roads including Millbank, Albert Embankment, Victoria Embankment and Borough High Street, supported by new signage and road markings, as well as raised pedestrian crossings in some locations.

TfL will also begin working with boroughs and local communities on the next phase of lower speeds for outer London, focusing on some of the most high-risk areas. This includes proposals to lower speeds on Commercial Street and Whitechapel Road.

Penny Rees, head of network sponsorship at TfL, said: “We know that lower speeds save lives, it’s that simple. As more and more people choose to walk and cycle around London we must reduce the risk of them being killed or seriously injured. It’s clear people agree that making our roads safer will encourage Londoners to travel in more active and sustainable ways.”