Ilkley 20mph zone referendum vote day set

A date has been set for a public vote on plans to make all of Ilkley's roads 20mph.

Residents will go to the polls in the non-binding referendum between 16:00 and 19:00 BST on 23 October.

People will also be asked for their views on about 120 speed-reduction measures at more than 50 locations proposed by Bradford council.

The result of the vote cannot legally halt the plans, which are supported by Ilkley Town Council.

But James Stretton, of Ilkley Roads Safety Action Group, said he hoped it would "finally put to bed the raging debate".

The campaign group has called for a rethink on the proposals.

The speed measures are expected to cost £187,500, with the town council putting £87,500 towards the project.

Attendees at a meeting of Ilkley Town Council last week triggered the referendum.

There will be three polling stations in Ilkley and two in Ben Rhydding.

Mr Stretton told BBC Radio Leeds he wanted a "more thought-through and targeted scheme rather than just scattering speed cushions left, right, and centre".

However, he said the campaign group would accept the council's plans if the proposals were backed in the public vote.

Bradford Council held a consultation on the scheme in December and January.

The local authority said the measures would improve road safety and encourage people to use sustainable transport such as walking and cycling.

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