Thatcham town councillors request a speed reduction to 30pmh on Cold Ash Hill, Thatcham

Thatcham Town Council is asking West Berkshire Council to consider a speed reduction on Cold Ash Hill, taking the limit down from 40mph for the safety of drivers.

People in the area have raised concerns with Thatcham councillors over the speed limit on the stretch of Cold Ash Hill beginning at the roundabout where the road meets Heath Lane.

Specific concerns were raised over exiting Southend while cars are travelling at around 40mph.

Pulling out of that junction has been deemed “dangerous” and calls have been made to reduce the speed at this stretch of road down to 30mph.

Councillor Lee Dillon (Lib Dem, North East) said: “The reason why we are asking West Berkshire Council to take action is that’s what our residents are telling us they want to see happening.

“They are asking us to take action; as councillors we should be taking on their concerns and giving solutions.”

Mr Dillon raised these worries in a Thatcham Town Council planning and highways meeting in October but was met with some scepticism.

The matter was discussed again in another planning and highways meeting in early November where council members discussed the need for such a request.

Councillor Richard Crumly (Con, Thatcham Central) opposed the move, drawing upon the costs that they will incur.

He said: “The money could be better spent elsewhere."

Mr Crumly also commented, from personal experience driving up Cold Ash Hill, that there was “no weight” to the request.

He said: “I know that road well, Cold Ash Hill, I’ve gone up that road thousands of times.

“I don’t see this as a dangerous stretch of road, or a danger to anyone else.

“What benefit will this bring if it’s cut down to 30 from 40.”

Despite Mr Crumly’s comments, councillors went ahead to support the request and Mr Dillon will be taking it further with West Berkshire Council.

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