The 50mph speed limit on certain sections of UK motorways undergoing roadworks will be raised to 60mph in a move designed to reduce journey times and ‘tailgating’. The 10mph increase was first suggested back in 2017 and will only be applied at appropriate roadwork sections, likely those where few or no workers are present. Still, it’s a surprise move from Highways England that ought to help with the sanity of anyone forced to endure mile after mile of pointlessly restricted three-lane motorway.
It's not just the frustration that results either: the AA has evidence to suggest such scenarios actually make driving more dangerous thanks largely to the increase in tailgating it causes. But Highways England said not all sections will see the 60mph limit, with some sections limited to either 50 or even 40mph.
The move follows “extensive research and trials” - many of which took place on the M1 between junctions 13-16 - to cut journey times by an average of 68 seconds on a 24-mile stretch. The AA suggested driving standards increase in the zones, too, lowering the risk of accidents - and that on certain sections, including the 32 miles of M4 being converted to smart motorway, 60mph “would seem much more appropriate”.
Highways England chief executive Jim O'Sullivan added: “Road users understand that roadworks are necessary, but they are frustrated by them, so testing 60mph has been about challenging the norm while ensuring the safety of our people working out there and those using our roads. We have a huge programme of work planned, so being able to use 60mph where safe will continue to improve everybody's experience of our roads.”
Unions have criticised the 60mph zones, saying the 10mph increase puts lives at risk. Back in 2017, Unite hit back at the proposals, stating: "Sadly, in recent years there have been several deaths of motorway workers and these changes will make their work even more dangerous. Already motorists frequently drive into coned-off areas. At increased speeds, it will make such potentially lethal accidents even more common."
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