Speed limit signs could deface the countryside warns rural watchdog

Plans for new speed limits could "deface the countryside" with signs, distract drivers and cost £300 million, according the Country Land and Business Association in the East Midlands.

There could be as many as one million new speed limit signs in the countryside, with the Government encouraging local authorities to consider introducing lower limits, the rural watchdog added.

Tim Barnes-Clay, motoring correspondent for the organisation which supports owners of land, property, and businesses in rural England and Wales, said: "After deciding against a blanket 50mph national speed limit, the Government wants to encourage local authorities to consider introducing lower speed limits locally, but it has not thought through the national costs and implications.

"We need a common-sense compromise between imposing a new blanket limit and a million new signs.

"Many accidents on rural roads involve only one car and very often they’re to do with inexperienced drivers. The best speed limits are those motorists respect and accept," he added.