M27 roadworks speed limit could increase to 60mph under new motorway rules

Highways England announced that the typical 50mph restriction where work is being carried out will rise to 60mph.

The Government-owned company responsible for motorways and major A roads in England made the decision after carrying out trials over the past 18 months which showed the safety of motorists and road workers can be maintained despite the 10mph increase.

It found that more drivers stay within the limit when it is 60mph. Average time savings ranged from 8 per cent to 14 per cent at the eight sites tested.

Roadworks are being carried out on the M27 between junctions 4 and 11 to turn the route into a smart motorway. Average speed cameras and a 50mph speed limit have been in place since the end of 2018.

The change in policy does not mean limits will be immediately increased at every set of roadworks – so it is not known where the new speed restriction will be used on the M27 straight away.

Depending on the road layout and the work being done, 40mph and 50mph restrictions will continue to be used in places.

Highways England chief executive Jim O'Sullivan said: ‘All of our research shows that road users benefit from 60mph limits in roadworks. They have shorter journey times and feel safe.

‘Road users understand that roadworks are necessary, but they are frustrated by them.

SEE ALSO: Fresh safety fears raised about M27

‘So testing 60mph has been about challenging the norm while ensuring the safety of our people working out there and those using our roads.’

Anthony Smith, chief executive of watchdog Transport Focus, described the introduction of 60mph limits as ‘a welcome step’.

He went on: ‘We know road users want speed limits in roadworks to be no lower than necessary to maintain safety.’

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