Safety concerns could see the speed limit lowered on part of a busy county road.

Councillors will today consider a proposal to reduce the limit on a section of the A596 near Workington to 40mph.

The move, supporters say, would make a pedestrian crossing to the Energy Coast University Technical College and Lakes College usable.

Cumbria County Council’s local committee for Allerdale will consider a traffic order to reduce the speed limit to 50mph between Dobies Roundabout and the junction with Jubilee Road, at Lillyhall.

The reduction would improve safety at the crossing, which was installed last year for people to walk or cycle between the two education establishments.

Students at the UTC travel between the sites to use the construction training centre and sport facilities at Lakes College.

A report to councillors states: “Following the recommendations from an independent road safety auditor, the council is seeking to improve pedestrian safety at the crossing before allowing the use of the crossing.

“The reduction of speed at the crossing, in conjunction with the addition of street lighting, is aimed at providing the necessary improvements recommended by the independent road safety auditor.”

If approved, the 40mph speed limit would extend from a point at the junction with the A595 for about 250 metres in a northerly direction. 

Council officials say the proposals have been “well received” during informal consultation.

Any go-ahead from councillors today would see formal consultation follow as part of the legal steps needed to bring about the change.

Politicians are being recommended to approve the move.