Speed Control and Transport Policy
by Mayer Hillman and Stephen Plowden

Although speed limits exist in all countries, the great potential of speed limits as an instrument of transport policy has never been properly explored. This book aims to do so. Stephen Plowden and Mayer Hillman trace the connections between speed and the various harmful effects of lower speeds on journey times and travel patterns. They calculate that the standard urban speed limit should be reduced from 30 mph to 20 mph and that the national speed limit should probably be no higher than 55 mph. Large-scale trials to verify these calculations are recommended. It is argued that the most efffective method of enforcing speed limits is through the vehicle itself; in addition, if top speed and acceleration were lowered, vehicles could be much more fuel-efficient and much less polluting. The authors have worked in transport planning and research since the mid-1960s. Their research has been concerned with the social consequences of transport, ways of reducing the danger and environmental impact of traffic and how to make the best use of existing roads. This book continues these themes.