A CONSULTATION is to be launched over plans to reduce the speed limit in two busy residential roads.

Stanway councillor Kevin Bentley said both residents and councillors were keen to see the speed limit in Dale Close and Lucy Lane North in Stanway cut from 30mph to 20mph.

Now plans have been drawn up with the public being invited to give their views.

Mr Bentley, who is a Colchester borough and Essex county councillor, said: "Dale Close is a cul-de-sac and you have youngsters playing in the area.

"You have to drive carefully through the parked cars there anyway so most people are only travelling at 20mph anyway.

"Many residential roads have 20mph speed limits and if the lower limit could be introduced here it would be safer for everyone."

Essex County Council is due to launch a consultation.

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: "The consultation is due to start either at the end of this month or very early March and will last for 21 days.

"Residents will be notified of several ways they can get in touch in order to share their views."