Campaigners today welcomed plans to introduce 20mph limits on residential roads across Oxford.

Ian Hudspeth, the county council's cabinet member for transport, approved a report which proposes consulting residents on the new limits, which are likely to be introduced on a staggered basis.

But the report ruled out a blanket 20mph limit, which means the speed limits on arterial roads will remain at 30mph and 40mph.

Richard Bradley, a spokesman for the Life Begins at 20 group, said: "We're delighted that the council has decided to move forward and consult residents on bringing in 20mph limits.

"We would encourage the council to consult widely and include the young, the elderly, car drivers, cyclists, bus users and neighbourhood action groups.

"Lots of people have been pushing for this for some time and it's a bold move by the council to move to the next stage."

Simon Hunt, of cycling campaign group Cyclox, added: "We were sceptical that this would happen - we thought it was never-never land but everyone has kept going to make it happen and this will bring environmental and health benefits."

Graham Jones, a spokesman for High Street traders, welcomed the 20mph limit for residential roads but warned against "illogical" limits which could add to delivery problems faced by firms struggling with existing traffic restrictions.

Lord Mayor Susanna Pressel said the report was "not brave enough", adding that the 20mph limit should apply on arterial routes, because they were also residential roads.

Mr Hudspeth said: "This is the starting point and we want everyone to be able to give their views in consultation. We don't want to put a stranglehold on Oxford and we need to take into account the business community, so we have to be careful."

Campaigners have already succeeded in getting 20mph limits in some residential streets and parts of Banbury and Cowley roads.