Following today's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Conservative Group Leader, Councillor Ruraidh Stewart who represents Skye and Raasay, is calling for an end to the blanket 20mph speed limit across Highland as the Temporary Traffic Regulations Order (TTRO) approaches its expiration later this year. Cllr Stewart describes the policy as "a shocking waste of public funds."
Cllr Stewart highlighted the lack of support from the community, citing Highland Council's own data: "Only 17% of surveyed residents back this limit, with a mere 15% seeing any benefit for them or their community. The blanket speed limit has resulted in an insignificant 1.7mph reduction in speed - hardly a success. The council promised to consult the public at the end of the TTRO period and yet has taken no notice of the results of this survey. This is shameful and a prime example of this council saying one thing and doing the opposite. This nonsense has been overwhelmingly rejected by the people of Highland, whom this council purports to serve"
Cllr Stewart also condemned the waste of public funds. "The squandering of taxpayers' hard-earned money and our diligent staff's time on this ineffective scheme is inexcusable. These resources should have been directed towards our community's actual priorities like addressing the dangerous potholes that compromise the safety of our roads, instead of being wasted on ineffective stickers that are so shoddy they already peeling off"
He also criticised the administration for ignoring public outcry. "Despite claims of being a 'listening council,' the SNP/Independent administration has consistently ignored widespread public opposition to this initative"
The public has spoken, and the message is clear. It's time to end this wasteful and ineffective project before any more money is wasted. The council must redirect its efforts and funds towards initiatives that truly enhance the safety and well-being of our Highland communities."