MORE than £850,000 spent on 20mph speed zones in built-up areas of Bolton has been described as a “waste of money” due to an alleged lack of enforcement.

Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Roger Hayes has insisted assurances he had the limits would be enforced by police were not followed through.

He said: “We have spent a lot of money, at least 850,000 and probably nearer £1m. We paid for several areas in Smithills, out of our area forum budget, before there was a general roll-out.

“Before making this decision I twice asked the police commissioner for assurances there would be some enforcement and related publicity. I was assured, within the limits of police resources, that would happen but it never has.

“As we found out, even before these conversations and the general roll-out, the police were following speed enforcement guidelines which meant no enforcement. The roll-out has signage but virtually no physical features and as a result it is not enforced and largely ignored.

Cllr Hayes questioned whether the move was a "waste of money".

Cabinet member Cllr Stuart Haslam insisted there had been some enforcement in 20mph zones.

He added: “This council has introduced a borough wide network of 20mph speed limits this was done with support of all parties.

“It is therefore a surprise and a worry a councillor should consider investment touching on road safety has been a waste of money. Anything that encourages drivers to behave responsibly is a good thing and cannot be regarded as an irresponsible investment.”

A police statement said: “Traffic authorities are asked to keep their speed limits under review with changing circumstances and to consider introduction of 20mph zones and limits in urban areas which are largely residential to ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Cllr Haslam added: “This council takes road safety as one of its priorities and only last week the cabinet has in depth discussion at our request with GMP and raised our residents concerns about speeding.

“We discussed community speed watch and the possible purchase of hand held cameras to be used by PCSOs across the borough.

“Nationally there is a lobby to reduce the default speed limit to 20 rather than 30. This would not be appropriate for many roads . Councillors know this is not always welcomed by residents as evidenced by consultations the council has carried out."