COUNCILS across Wales prepare to publish results of the Welsh government’s review into the controversial 20mph speed limit in urban areas.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates has set out the next steps after a petition opposing the scheme reached 500,000 signatures.

Mr Skates said: “I wanted to give people a voice on 20mph in their area and I am grateful to everyone who has shared feedback with their local council over the past few months.

“I want to build from the broad consensus that 20mph is right where people live, work and play — this is about getting the right speeds on the right roads.

“I’m pleased that local authorities are starting to move into the final stages of the plan,” Mr Skates said.

The first two phases of the plan are complete and local authorities are now starting to set out the final stage of the plan by publishing information on the amount of feedback received and the next steps.

Once their review is complete, local authorities may decide to change the speed limit on an individual road.

Welsh Local Government Association chairman Cllr Andrew Morgan said: “We will need to carefully balance the benefits and disbenefits of raising speeds. Safety of all road users will be at the heart of the decisions we take.”

Tuesday sees the anniversary of the introduction of the 20mph default speed limit in Wales.

The latest road traffic statistics show a fall in collisions and a reduction in speeds.