More than 1000 streets across Inverclyde could be converted into 20mph zones at a cost of more than £600,000.
Members of Inverclyde Council’s environment and regeneration committee will be asked on Thursday to consider a report on 20mph zones – which would depend on Scottish Government funding before becoming a reality.
The report states that no fewer than 1054 roads across the area which currently have a 30mph limit could be suitable for a cut to 20mph.
A two-year timetable has already been set out including a public consultation period at a total cost of £651,500.
If approved work could begin in November, with the 20mph signs up and running by February 2027.
It's estimated that the signs alone for the new 1054 lower speed zones would cost around £442,000.
Conservative councillor Graeme Brooks hit out at the idea, saying: "I am very disappointed that we are proposing to spend £651,500 on the implementation of unnecessary restrictions on constituents yet again.
"This is a ridiculous waste of taxpayers’ money.
In contrast, the committee’s convener, Labour councillor Michael McCormick, said: "Any scheme resulting in roads being safer for pedestrians, and especially children, should be welcomed.
"The main issue will be how the proposals are funded.
"Discussions are ongoing with council officers and Transport Scotland to find a way forward."
On one of Inverclyde’s existing 20mph zones, Kempock Street, Derek Cardiff, owner of Kempock Cleaners, gave his thoughts to the Greenock Telegraph.
Cardiff said: “I think it would be a great idea - not so much for streets like Kempock Street, but definitely the little side streets which lead to more residential areas.
"I live in Gourock and have to drive up Victoria Road and people drive along there at 50mph.
"I think reducing roads like that to 20 would be brillant."
When asked if he thinks drivers on Kempock Street comply with the 20mph limit, Derek said: "I know they do not.
"Because of the congestion here, the traffic is usually quite slow but when it's not congested cars go past rather fast.
"Even on this road [Kempock Street], I know it's a 20 limit but could benefit even from going down to 15mph."
The report, by Eddie Montgomery, Inverclyde Council’s head of physical assets, says the need for further 20mph restrictions was first identified two years ago.
Road safety experts claim that people are seven times more likely to die when hit by a vehicle travelling at 30mph than at 20.
Those are on Buccleugh Street to just west of the South Street roundabout; from east of 119 Inverkip Road to west of Neil Street; and from a point north of the Wemyss Bay railway station access point to south of 82 Shore Street in Skelmorlie.
But Inverclyde Council officials have suggested extending those by having 20mph zones covering the whole stretch of the A78 from the Bullring roundabout to Inverclyde Academy, and an additional stretch in Wemyss Bay, from the Co-op store to St Joseph’s and St Patrick’s Church.
