Getting people cycling on residential streets needs more than 20mph limits

Having slower traffic where people live is a start. But to really boost cycling we need less traffic - and that means curbing rat runs

Speed limits of 20mph are being seen increasingly on residential streets, and they're popular: recent Department of Transport research showed 73% of people are in favour. Campaigning from groups like 20's Plenty for Us and Living Streets has paid off, with support growing significantly.

Slower speeds are necessary to reduce injuries. But even if 20mph limits can be properly enforced - a big question - would this be enough? Do they, alone, create pleasant, liveable neighbourhoods, where lots of people will choose to walk or cycle? Do we want to see a steady stream of traffic in residential streets, even travelling at 20mph, or should our goals be more radical?