RESIDENTS and road users in Ferndown and West Parley are being invited to have their say on proposals to reduce speed limits on New Road and Christchurch Road.

Dorset Council has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce 30mph limits along sections of the A347 New Road and the B3073 Christchurch Road.

The consultation runs until Friday, February 20.

The proposals follow requests from residents, town councils and Dorset councillors to reduce speeds on the busy routes.

Dorset Council cabinet member for place services Cllr Jon Andrews said: “The community has voiced strong support for these speed limit reductions.

“The proposals represent a significant step forward in enhancing road safety in the area. I am pleased that we are now able to gather broader public feedback.”

To improve safety and consistency, the review is split into three sections.

On the A347 New Road north of Parley Cross, a 30mph limit is proposed between Parley Cross and the A348 Ringwood Road, replacing the current 40mph limit.

Minor junction changes at Dudsbury Avenue and Chander Close and improved pedestrian crossing points are also planned, with works coordinated alongside carriageway maintenance to minimise disruption.

A 30mph limit is also proposed on Christchurch Road, running west from Barrack Road through Parley Cross to link with the existing limit near Dudsbury Golf Course. South of Parley Cross, New Road could see a reduced limit from Ensbury Bridge to the junction.

People can support, object to or comment on the proposals online via Dorset Council’s website under The County of Dorset (A347 New Road, West Parley), (B3073 Christchurch Road, West Parley), (30mph Speed Limit) (No.) Order 202.

Alternatively, people can submit their views in writing to the Traffic Regulation Team, Dorset Council, Colliton Park, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1XJ. All responses must be received by 20 February.