Hull City Council has approved work to implement a new 20mph zone in Hull’s Old Town area, as part of the safety improvement scheme for Lowgate.

It aims to reduce the risk of accidents near Hull College, as well as the retail and entertainment venues between George Street and the A63 Castle Street, the council says. The zone will also cover Savile Street, Vernon Street, Queens Dock Avenue, Princes Dock Street, Guildhall Road, Alfred Gelder Street and the side streets off Lowgate that border the River Hull.

Following the approval, the council is now in the process of completing the traffic regulation order (TRO) for the speed limit change, as well as putting up signage to mark the 20mph limit. Work is anticipated to be completed by late summer.

The council says that the implementation of the new 20mph zone is the first step of the wider improvement scheme for Lowgate. It comes in response to a request from the city’s coroner after a pedestrian fatality.

The other works that are planned, include:

  • widening the footway outside of O’Leary’s public house at Lowgate / Scale Lane to reduce the width of the carriageway to make crossing easier and create a lay-by for the taxi rank
  • a new signalised crossing facility at Silver Street / Scale Lane
  • widening the footpath at various locations on Market Place and Lowgate


The new 20mph zone for Hull’s Old Town area
The new 20mph zone for Hull’s Old Town area

The council is also considering pedestrian crossing facilities near to Hull College, however this will not be until after Queen’s Gardens has reopened and pedestrian surveys can be carried out. The council has also made the decision to undertake the works to Lowgate in spring 2026 as a result of repairs to Drypool Bridge. It is hoped that this will reduce disruption.

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “When it comes to road safety, the council takes its responsibilities very seriously and is determined to improve the city’s infrastructure to ensure the safety of pedestrians, motorists and all members of the travelling public.

“The implementation of a new 20mph zone for Hull’s Old Town, including Lowgate, is the first step to improving safety in this area.

“By reducing vehicle speeds, widening the footpaths and providing better crossing facilities, not only are we improving safety, but we are providing an accessible walking environment for everyone in the community.

“This scheme also aligns with our broader community plan for Hull to create safe and welcoming neighbourhoods as well as making the city healthier, fairer and more environmentally friendly.”

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