THE new 20mph speed limit for Winchester City Centre will come into force on August 18.

The reduction in speed limit, one of the biggest traffic changes in years, will be implemented following preparations and approvals from both the county and city councils.

Work will start soon on painting roundel markings on the road, with a small amount of signage to follow shortly afterwards.

It is hoped to complete this work in September, but it is subject to weather conditions.

The limit will roughly follow the area within the old Roman walls and parts of Hyde.

County councillor Seán Woodward, Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, said: “Good roads are a priority for Hampshire County Council. The County Council plays an important role in ensuring that transport and travel in Hampshire is safe, efficient and reliable for all who live and work here.

“By working with our partners Winchester City Council and listening to what the public have told us, a reduction in traffic speeds in the historic centre of Winchester will make the city safer and a more pleasant place to be.

“There will be a small amount of disruption when the new speed limit signs and markings are installed, but we ask that people bear with us as this should be very short-lived”.

Twenty miles per hour zones have been introduced recently in Winnall, Stanmore and Highcliffe.