Neighbourhoods could police 20mph zones if they are introduced in all new Shropshire housing estates.

Councillor Steve Davenport, portfolio holder for Highways and Transport, said he hopes residents will take up the enforcement mantel.

The unitary authority outlined its view that where appropriate, it should advocate the speed limit in any new residential developments back in February.

It follows the national 20s Plenty campaign.

Cllr Davenport said work on the policy is ongoing and should go before cabinet before the end of the year.

He continued: “The police most likely won’t enforce it so it would be great if it was enforced through a neighbourhood watch-type scheme with residents monitoring it and owning it.

“In reality you can’t really do more than 20mph on a housing estate anyway, but it would enforce the fact that those areas are child safety zones and remind motorists that a 20mph speed limit is being enforced.

“That is what we are aspiring to.”

He added: “I don’t agree that all urban areas should be 20mph zones, but I do believe it should be looked at on a case-by-case basis, and that they should be implemented outside schools and hospitals.”

Cllr Davenport also revealed that he plans to use his own area of St Martins as a test case.

He added: “I have been asked numerous times to look at introducing a 20mph speed limit on the Overton Road and we are discussing it with businesses and villagers about what they think and whether it is a good idea.”

The policy was raised at the council's Place Overview Committee, however a proposal to create a task and finish group to look at 20mph zones across the whole of Shropshire was rejected by members.

Cllr Harry Taylor who put forward the proposal said it had the backing of Shrewsbury Town Council.