Sir – Calls for a new 40mph limit on the B4022 between Hailey and Finstock (Report, December 31) seem logical — until one digs a little deeper. Far from a solution, lower limits often cause problems — frustration overtakes, bunching and drivers losing attention just when they should be concentrating on hazards. In the case of the B4022, the two specific hazards of the Bird in Hand turn and the turn to Crawley could be far better addressed with a specific, vehicle-illuminated sign, warning drivers of the hazards. The report, TRL 548, from the Transport Research Laboratory, makes it clear that these signs are highly effective — much more so than limits.

Sadly, Oxfordshire County Council’s imposition of ultra-low limits that often ‘cry wolf’ where there are no hazards, makes it even less likely that drivers will comply with a lower limit. It is vital that we move away from the idea that a lower speed limit is the answer to all problem roads.

Mark McArthur-Christie, Bampton