MOTORISTS could be forced to slow down to 20mph on all residential streets in Huddersfield.

Kirklees Lib Dems have proposed the radical move to make roads in the district safer.

The centres of Honley and Meltham already have 20mph zones.

Earlier this year the Department of Transport announced changes which make it easier for councils to introduce the speed limit reductions.

Clr Christine Stanfield called on Kirklees Council to use the new powers across the district.

The Lindley Lib Dem said: “Reducing the speed limit to 20mph in our residential roads will provide residents with a real choice in how they travel by removing the fear of fast traffic from community streets.

“I would like to see Kirklees roads transformed with significant improvements in the levels of residents walking, cycling and using public transport.”

Clr Stanfield added that the radical change would benefit drivers.

She said: “Financially, the motorist will save money, with less repair bills from wear and tear of their vehicle in the long-term.”

Clr Stanfield believes a blanket 20mph restriction in residential areas is the best approach.

“The option of a having short lengths of 20mph speed limits, say, outside a school, may result in drivers speeding up significantly once they have passed the particular zone,” she said.