The introduction of a 20mph limit in Stow-on-the-Wold will make the town safer, a police chief said.

A 20mph zone in the centre of the town is now fully in place after being gradually rolled out over the past few months.

This speed limit formed phase two of a wider scheme to increase pedestrian safety and prevent dangerous driving in the town.

Stow Town Council secured money for the project after applying to the Safe and Social Driving in Gloucestershire fund run by the PCC.

Police and crime commissioner Martin Surl said, “Far too many people die on our roads as a result of motorists going too fast, that is why I made safe and social driving one of my priorities.

“But rather than me tell communities what they ought to do and where they ought to do it, I asked towns and parishes to have a think and come back with a plan for their area.

“Although it can take longer than we might all hope for these plans to come to fruition, I’m pleased that local people are having a say in helping to make their roads safer.”

Stow-on-the-Wold Cllr Alun White added: “This 20 mph limit is a key stage in our rolling programme to improve safety and the environment in an iconic Cotswold market town.

"We thank the Commissioner for his generous support”.

Phase one of the town centre changes was the redesign of the parking provision in the Town Square.

The redesign provided increased, better located disabled parking provision and the relocation of the coach drop off bay.

Setts have been put in place across the High Street entrance to the Town Square and a pedestrian nib that serves the dual purpose of slowing traffic and making pedestrian crossing easier at this point.

Phase 3 is to introduce a 7.5 tonne weight limit on Digbeth Street for all vehicles, including buses, which will further improve pedestrian safety.

This is currently going through the consultation process at Gloucestershire County Council, and it is hoped the change will be implemented early this year.