A ROAD in North Warnborough with a long history of road traffic complaints could have its speed limit reduced to 20 miles per hour.

Hampshire County Council wants to reduce the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph in North Warnborough Street, from its junction with West Street to near the Tunnel Lane junction.

The 20mph zone would also cover Adams Close and Laurel Close – two residential roads that adjoin North Warnborough Street.

Residents in North Warnborough Street have long complained about speeding traffic, and of heavy goods vehicles damaging cars and buildings along the narrow road.

It already has a traffic-calming measure at its most narrow point, near The Anchor Inn.

Members of the traffic and transport committee at Odiham Parish Council supported the proposal in a vote that took place.

But Councillor Mike O’Neill said: “I think it’s a bit of a waste of public money because I do not think that it’s needed. Traffic there is generally slow. There is no evidence that 20mph speed limits work at all.”

He also said the change would mean drivers would concentrate more on their speedometers than the road itself.

But Cllr Helen Fleming said that argument could be used for any proposed speed limit change.

She added: “I have got the feeling that people who live right on the road do have experience of people zooming through, perhaps very early in the morning on their way to work.

“There were a number of people who told me the 20mph speed limit would be helpful. If it helps some of the people some of the time, then it’s beneficial.”

Members voted four to one in favour of the scheme, and agreed to ask Hampshire County Council to consult with residents before going ahead with it.