A 20mph speed limit could be introduced around all Wirral schools.

Cllr Jean Quinn, Liberal Democrat cabinet member for Streetscene, is asking Wirral Council to look into the feasibility of introducing a statutory reduced limit.

Councillor Quinn said, “I am asking council to request the Director of Technical Services to review speed limits around Wirral schools and, in partnership with Merseyside Police, examine the feasibility of introducing either permanent or variable “time specific” 20mph restrictions as appropriate.”

Department for Transport guidance on setting local speed limits highlights that local authorities can consider introducing 20mph speed limits, variable 20mph speed limits and 20mph zones in residential areas and around schools if they believe it appropriate to do so.

Councillor Quinn added: “Our 'Accidents 2 Zero' initiative involving the introduction of advisory 20mph signs in residential areas has been very successful and popular and has now progressed onto a third tranche of sites across the borough.

"The introduction of 20mph speed limits around schools is a logical extension of this.”

Figures show the number of children killed or seriously injured on Wirral roads fell from 37 in 2005, to 14 in 2008.

Councillor Quiin said: "However, 14 is still 14 too many and we must never lose sight of this fact. Improving safety on Wirral’s roads, particularly for vulnerable road users such as children and adult pedestrians and cyclists, must continue to be a priority.”

The full council will consider the issue at its meeting on November 2.