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Drivers in England face new major motorway speed limit ‘that will last a while’

Owing to the works, speed limits and restrictions for motorists have been cut to 50mph.

09:44, 22 May 2025

Drivers in England face new major motorway speed limit 'that will last a while'Drivers in England face new major motorway speed limit 'that will last a while'

Drivers in England face a new major motorway speed limit that could "last a while yet". Motorists on the M25 face a new speed limit, owing to new restrictions on the road network, which is in and around the capital.

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National Highways has warned that drivers can expect to face temporary speed restrictions along the M25 between J5 and J7, as well as J23 and J27. Owing to the works, speed limits and restrictions for motorists have been cut to 50mph.

Tim Wells, from the transport authority, said: "These measures are in place as an extra safety precaution until testing is complete and the system is meeting our rigorous performance specification.

"We are grateful for drivers' patience during this time and are working hard to restore the national speed limit at the earliest possible opportunity."

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The AA's Jack Cousens explained: "Testing is expected to last a while yet.

Once testing is complete, the speed limit will return to the national speed limit (70mph).

"However, as this is a section of 'smart' motorway, it means the speed limit will vary depending on traffic flow and incidents.

Drivers should remember that the speed limit shown on the gantry and hockey stick signs are the ones to obey.

"Even if the road looks clear, if a lower speed limit is showing, then drivers must adhere to it, or they risk receiving a speeding ticket if they speed past the cameras."

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There is further work planned in M20 between J3 and J5 in Kent - four new emergency areas and M25 between J5 and J7 in Surrey and Kent - nine new emergency areas, as well as the M25 between J23 and J27 in Hertfordshire and Essex - 15 new emergency areas.

Work will see changes to M3 between J2 and J4A in Surrey and Hampshire - 10 new emergency areas, M4 between J8/9 and J12 in Berkshire - 12 new emergency areas and M27 between J4 and J11 in Hampshire - two new emergency areas too.

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