Proposals for a 20 mile per hour speed limit around schools could be discussed at a council meeting tomorrow.

Barnet borough councillor Jack Cohen has proposed a motion about the local branch of the Twenty’s Plenty campaign.

The Liberal Democrat representative for the Childs Hill ward believes the move would bring a host of benefits to the area, including encouraging people to walk or cycle to school.

He said: “People don’t feel safe walking on our streets and around schools, so it’s about time the council tackles this head on.

“It’s a no brainer, and if we have 20mph zones it’s a win-win situation. There will be fewer serious accidents.

“We should be helping mothers walk their children to school by slowing the traffic down - it’s about time we take action.”

Those backing the plans claim the measure will save lives, after statistics from the Department of Transport show it could reduce accidents by 60 per cent.

Cllr Cohen added: “This will also mean less cost on the NHS dealing with accidents and injuries, so we’ll all benefit.”

Last week, the proposals were discussed at the Finchley and Golders Green Residents Forum at the Crown Moran Hotel in Cricklewood.

The plans are supported by paediatrician Dr Justin Daniels, who spoke out in support of lower speed zones at the meeting.

He pointed out that there are five schools within a one-mile stretch on the East End Road, which is used by hundreds during the busy morning rush hour.

He said: “I have both seen and been aware of a number of accidents that have occurred in the road.

“Some are associated with speeding - others with poor driving. I would like to propose the whole length of the road and surrounding shoulders become a 20mph zone.”

Mothers in Barnet and Haringey have also launched the Walksafe petition, urging for a lower speed limit around Coppetts Wood Primary School, Friern Barnet, and Coldfall School, Muswell Hill.

In October, they rolled out a makeshift zebra crossing on Colney Hatch Lane and help up posters campaigning for 20mph.

During tomorrow’s council meeting, rail services in Barnet, academes and the cost of living will also be discussed.

It will be held from 7pm at Hendon Town Hall, in The Burroughs.

Cllr Dean Cohen said: “As Cllr Jack Cohen will be aware, a cross-party task and finish group has been established to consider the issue of 20mph limits and we will pay careful attention to the work of this group and its findings.

"We have always been happy to look at the option of 20mph limits on a case-by-case basis and remain so. In fact, in my time as cabinet member I have authorised 20mph roads in Cllr Jack Cohen’s own ward.”