COUNTY Hall officials say there is no cash available for 20mph zones outside a school and play park after villagers raised safety fears.
Last month Cotherstone Parish Council asked Durham County Council to consider bringing in lower speed zones around the primary school on the B6277 and at the village’s play park, in Moor Road, after residents said they were concerned about speeding motorists.
The council also questioned why “Slow” markings outside the primary school have not been replaced when resurfacing work was carried out in 2020.
Clerk Judith Mashiter told members that police would support the introduction of 20mph zones, but previous studies show average speeds are above 24mph, so a lower limit through Cotherstone would not be deemed appropriate.
She added: “The police say they would support it, but they say it’s up to Durham County Council and they have said they have not got the money to do it.”
Cllr Richard Hunter said residents in Lartington had erected their own signs, encouraging motorists to reduce their speed through the village. He added: “I think we should ask the residents who raised it to put signs up that are similar to those in Lartington.”
Cllr Robert Johnson said: “Are we encouraging residents to put up home-made signs?”
Ms Mashiter added: “We have to be careful that we are not endorsing it. I suggest that residents speak to other villages that have done it.”
