The state’s peak motoring body has criticised Brisbane City Council’s decision to reduce speeds at shopping centres, saying it might not save a single person.

On Wednesday, the council said it would install 40km/h safety zones in dozens of suburban precincts with shops and cafes to reduce the number of crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists.

RACQ spokesman Paul Turner slammed the council's suburban speed reduction. Credit:Jorge Branco

RACQ spokesman Paul Turner said the council’s decision was concerning.

“No evidence had been released to support lowering speeds on major roads around suburban shopping centres,” he said.