HAMPSHIRE civic chiefs have been given the green light for 20mph pilot schemes to be rolled out across the county.

Residents in Stanmore, Winchester, will be among the first in Hampshire to trial the reduced speeds along with Cherbourg Road area in Eastleigh, Medstead near Alresford and in Hythe.

Highcliffe and Winnall in Winchester will also be subject to further pilots though these have been agreed by Winchester City Council under separate Government funding.

Almost 11,000 questionnaires were sent to residents asking about the scheme, with over two thirds responding favourably, ranging from 67 per cent in Hart to 91 per cent in Fareham.

Critics argue that 20mph limits are a waste of money and do not cut accidents as they make some road users complacent.