Confusion Reigns Over Gunnersbury Avenue Speed Limit Reduction
Councillors originally informed it would be cut to 20mph
The A406 north of Chiswick Roundabout currently has a restriction of 40mph
September 4, 2026
Confusion has broken out over Transport for London’s plans to cut the speed limit on Gunnersbury Avenue, after Hounslow councillors were mistakenly told that the limit north of Chiswick Roundabout would be reduced from to 20mph.
Chiswick Gunnersbury councillor Joanna Biddolph quickly pointed out, that the current limit on the dual carriageway up to the junction with Popes Lane was not 30mph, as was stated, but 40mph.
The error was corrected before letters were sent to residents, and updated notifications are now due to go out on Friday 4 September, confirming TfL’s intention to introduce a new 30mph limit on this section of the A406 (North Circular Road). Work on the changes is expected to begin early next year.
The mix-up has revived a long history of disputes over speed enforcement on this section of Gunnersbury Avenue. Back in 2014, residents living near the Popes Lane junction campaigned for better enforcement of the 40mph limit, citing persistent problems with motorcyclists and HGVs ignoring the restriction. Their efforts prompted TfL to propose a reduction to 30mph, a move that received widespread support — but the change was never implemented, and the limit remained at 40mph except during temporary roadworks.
The northbound speed camera near the International School of London has been a flashpoint ever since it was installed in 2016. It became one of TfL’s most lucrative enforcement sites, generating more than £1 million in fines in its first full year. Television presenter James May was among those caught out, and public complaints eventually led to improved signage.
TfL has previously linked speed reduction proposals to safety upgrades. In January 2019, the agency installed a central reservation near Power Road to prevent right-turning traffic, and again indicated that a 30mph limit would follow. As with the 2014 proposal, the change was never enacted.
Transport for London has been asked for comment.
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