Speed Limit Reduction
The Green Party has put forth a proposal to reduce the national speed limit on Britain's motorways to 55mph. This measure, championed by party leader Zack Polanski, is part of a broader strategy to manage 'travel demand' by 'reducing speeds and volume of motorised traffic'.
The official Green Party transport policy states: "On major roads outside of built up areas, the maximum speed limit allowed would be 55mph, to maximise the efficiency of fuel use as well as improving safety."
The proposal also includes a commitment to 'increase taxes on driving incrementally' and 'steadily reduce parking spaces', measures the party claims are aimed at encouraging greater reliance on public transport.
Political Backlash
This initiative has already drawn sharp criticism from the Conservative Party, who have labeled Mr Polanski's agenda a ‘war on motorists’. Conservative representatives have accused Mr Polanski of aiming to make driving 'slower, more expensive and, in many cases, impossible'.
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Party Stance and Context
Zack Polanski assumed the leadership of the Green Party of England and Wales on September 2, 2025. His political stance is described as 'eco-populist', connecting high living costs with climate change and advocating for a wealth tax to reduce inequality.
The Green Party's broader manifesto, as outlined in February 2026, touches on various issues including free personal care, dismantling nuclear weapons, taxing billionaires, increasing mental health funding, and legalising assisted dying. The party has seen significant growth, with over 20,000 new members in recent months, making it their largest ever.
Background
The Green Party's transport policy appears to be centred on enhancing public transportation. Former Green Party leader Baroness Natalie Bennett noted that the party's transport policy "is focused on making public transport reliable, available, affordable and high quality."
The proposals for speed limit reduction and increased driving costs emerge as the Green Party seeks to build on recent momentum and potentially translate increased membership into political power. Mr Polanski, known for his 'charismatic and bolshy debating style', has been identified as a potentially significant figure in British politics.
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