What is the process for deciding speed limits?

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Sun 1 Feb 2009 16:33
What is the process for deciding speed limits? - dimdip
Can anyone tell me (or point me to a thread or website) how speed limits are set, please? I'm thinking more about the local process rather then the national limits; particularly roads that carry a 30 mph limit where that seems unreasonably low. Specifically, is someone with relevant technical knowledge involved, or is it decided by 'other factors'? Thanks.
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Sun 1 Feb 2009 16:51
What is the process for deciding speed limits? - Rhubarb
Try: www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roadsafety/speedmanagement/dftc...f

It's a PDF document.
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Sun 1 Feb 2009 19:01
What is the process for deciding speed limits? - Mr X
'What is the process for deciding speed limits?'
In one word - Politics
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Mon 2 Feb 2009 18:59
What is the process for deciding speed limits? - dimdip
Thanks for the replies. Although I wasn't concerned with a particular road, the one HJ mentions is just the scenario (and good grief that must be an interminable drive now at 30 mph; it felt slow enough at 40!).

Agreed movilogo; as the document that Rhubarb kindly linked to states: "Indeed, if a speed limit is set in isolation, or is unrealistically low, it is likely to be ineffective and lead to disrespect for the speed limit." It seems clear that this aspect of the guidance document is not being adhered to in some cases.
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