STAFF shortages at Dorset County Council have led to a huge backlog of applications for speed limit reductions.

Around 60 applications from towns and villages across Dorset are currently awaiting assessment when normally the list is around 20. Communities are now being told there is likely to be long delays in getting applications processed.

Highways chiefs are also seeking a six-month ban on new applications while they deal with the back log but councillors argue other options should be pursued first.

The backlog has built up after two key staff left the authority. Both vacancies have since been filled but one was an internal candidate and a further recruit is not expected before November.

The problems has also worsened as the section manager has been concentrating for the last two years on the implementation of Decrim-inalised Parking Enforcement across the county and a team leader has been involved in the Dorset Safety Camera Partner-ship.

Highways chief Tim Westward said: "Because of a loss of staff and difficulties in recruitment a backlog has built up and in order to catch up on correspondence we suggested to the Roads and Rights of Way Committee that a six-month moratorium be put in place on any new requests for speed limits.

"Members were against that proposal so it is going to the Cabinet committee to consider and we are currently looking at what we can do to overcome the problem."

Possible options include borrowing extra staff and prioritising applications with the more doubtful ones being sent back immediately.

Mr Westward said: "If there are no objections to an application it can take four to five months to process from start to finish. Traffic and speed surveys have to be done, consultations and then the work. If there are objections it can add another two to three months.

"We are dealing with these on increasing basis and there is an expectation that a 20mph should be the norm which is clearly not sustainable."

The matter is being discussed by the Cabinet on September 10.

In East Dorset outstanding applications include 30mph and 40mph at Bakers Hanging near Ashley Heath, 30mph for New Road, Ferndown, 20mph in Wimborne town centre and 30mph in Wimborne Road, Ferndown.