Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council's regeneration and growth committee unanimously opposed a Department for Infrastructure proposal to raise speed limits for heavy goods vehicles in Northern Ireland.

The committee discussed plans to lower national speed limits on single rural roads and dual carriageways while expanding 20mph zones. A public consultation on these changes runs for 14 weeks and closes on April 22.

Downshire West DUP Alderman Allan Ewart raised concerns about 20mph road signs in Royal Hillsborough, Co Down, installed about a year ago. He questioned their legality and the risk of fake signs misleading drivers.

Downshire East UUP Alderman James Baird called the HGV speed increase proposal totally stupid. He stated current national speed limits suffice and the department should prioritise road repairs over such changes.

Baird noted HGVs face a restriction to travel 10mph below national road speeds. The committee agreed to note their unanimous opposition to speeding up HGVs in the consultation response.

A council officer confirmed awareness of the Hillsborough signs. The council has lodged a complaint with the Department for Infrastructure.