Speed limits should be slashed to 20mph on most roads in Brighton and Hove, according to the South East’s Green Party MEP Caroline Lucas.

The change has already been made in other British cities, most recently Portsmouth.

Experts say it reduces accidents, improves safety, boosts air quality and increases walking and cycling.

Dr Lucas said: “As the cost of motoring rockets and the city is reeling from another tragedy on our roads, now is surely the time to promote sustainable, safer and also cheaper alternatives.

“Lots of people would cycle around Brighton and Hove if only they felt it was safe to do so. Reducing the speed limit to 20mph would go a long way to achieving just that.

“The bottom line is that speed kills and the difference between 30mph and 20mph can be the difference between life and death for anyone involved in an accident.”