A new study has shown that approximately 72 per cent of British motorists are in favour of introducing 20mph speed restrictions throughout towns and cities.

The research indicates strong backing for reduced speed limits, with similar restrictions already operating on numerous smaller roads throughout Brighton and Hove.

These results emerge as the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety urges ministers to expand 20mph zones across the nation.

Paul Burgess, chief executive of Startline Motor Finance, explained that while reducing the speed limit in Wales generated considerable political debate and clearly provoked strong opinions among some citizens, their polling demonstrates that bringing the policy to the remainder of the United Kingdom enjoys widespread support.

He noted that most people acknowledge the road safety and environmental advantages of slower vehicle movement in urban settings, and consider the Welsh implementation to have been ultimately beneficial.

The Startline Used Car Tracker poll showed that 39 per cent of drivers are content to proceed at 20mph on city roads, while 33 per cent think the reduced limit offers better protection for cyclists and pedestrians.