Parents at a residential area of Weymouth who say speeding drivers have turned their streets into a ‘race track’ have welcomed a new road safety scheme being launched today.

A new ‘20 is plenty’ scheme is being launched in Littlemoor by local councillor Louie O’Leary, in a bid to deter excessive speeds and prevent someone being seriously injured or killed.

Around 300 signs will be going up to remind drivers to keep speeds below 20mph, with a particular focus on streets near the playpark and primary school.

The speed limit isn’t officially changing – rather drivers are encouraged to go slower.

A launch is being held today at 12pm on Louviers Road to officially herald the start of the scheme, which has been supported by more than 300 residents as well as local young people.

Cllr O’Leary said one of his election promises was to tackle road safety.

He has been kept busy setting up and running a coronavirus support hub at Littlemoor community centre, however he remains unwavering in his election commitment and has paid for the ‘20 is plenty’ signs out of his own pocket, helped by fellow councillors Tony Ferrari, Kevin Brookes, Ann Weaving and Christine James.

Cllr O’Leary said: “When I stood for election last year one of my priorities was to reduce speeding on the Littlemoor estate. There was tremendous support from residents for this scheme which was rolled out about ten years ago, but sadly the signs were removed.

“Certain roads have major problems with speeding and parents are very concerned about their children’s safety on the school run or visiting the park or youth club.”

Remaining down-to-Earth, Cllr O’Leary said the scheme is unlikely to solve the problem overnight but hopes it will raise awareness and make drivers think.

“It’s the start of long term strategy to increase road safety in the area,” he added.

“I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to Brian Hayter at Littlemoor hardware store for helping design the signs.”

Resident Terri Warr said: “The speeding around here is terrible. Bayard Road is like a race track at times - idiots come hurdling down - someone is going to get seriously hurt or killed before long.”

Another resident, Sophie Sewell, said: “The stopping distance at 20 mph is six metres and the distance at 30mph is 14 metres - this difference could save our children’s lives, if we were ever in that awful situation.”

A team of volunteers will put the signs up over the next couple of months around the area, following social distancing measures.