Sir – Basing an entire road safety argument on one’s own experience — as Susan Heeks does in her support of 20mph limits (Letters, January 22) — is quite understandable. At the same time, it does not always make for sound policy. Drivers match their speed to the way a road looks. If it’s wide, open and clear they will drive faster than on a narrow, hazard-strewn road.

On those narrower roads, the council admits that most are already driving slower than 20mph, so a new limit simply means expense and ugly signage for no reason.

On wider roads, consistent Government and police advice makes it clear that the limit will have no impact; drivers will drive to the conditions.

If we want people to drive slower in urban areas, we need to change the appearance of our roads. We need to make drivers feel as though they are driving in an area that is designed for people, not just cars.

We need to redesign the way Oxford’s roads look, not simply sling up a forest of signs, a few tons of concrete and hope for the best. Here is a wonderful opportunity to make Oxford’s residential streets attractive, people-centred and safe. I urge the council to take it.

Mark McArthur-Christie, Bampton