Opinion split on whether to raise UK motorway speed limit to 80mph

A large proportion of drivers support increasing the motorway speed limit to 80mph.

New research released ahead of December and Christmas shows that 43 per cent of British motorists believe the motorway speed limit should be increased to 80mph.

The 70mph speed limit was originally introduced as a trial in 1965, before becoming permanent in 1967. Advertisement Advertisement

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Nick Zapolski, founder of ChooseMyCar.com, which commissioned the research, has offered his thoughts alongside the results.

He stated: "Modern-day cars have improved beyond comparison in the last 60 years - and yet the motorway limit has remained the same."

Male drivers were discovered to be more supportive of higher speed limits than female motorists.

34 per cent of men admitted to occasionally exceeding the 70mph limit. Younger drivers were also more keen on the proposed changes, with 36 per cent in favour of the measures, compared to just 19 per cent of over-55s supporting the proposals, reports Birmingham Live [1].

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Zapolski stated: "This does seem ludicrous, and it seems many Brits are already driving beyond the limit anyway.

"Our research suggests that Brits are ready for a review of the limit, perhaps more in line with some of our European neighbours."

Specialists have suggested that Britain could mirror the approach of European nations that impose higher motorway speed limits. Speed restrictions throughout Europe are divided into three categories, with certain countries employing four classifications.

These groupings are determined by the type of road in use - built-up areas, single carriageways and motorways. Some nations incorporate an extra category for dual carriageways or expressways.

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The Department for Transport declared: "Speed limits are set to achieve a balance between a transport system that is an engine for economic growth but one that is also greener and safer and improves the quality of life in our communities.

"The safety of road users is our priority, and any change to speed limits would be evidence-led, looking at the impact on safety, air quality and carbon emissions as well as traffic flow and other road conditions."

References

^ reports Birmingham Live (www.birminghammail.co.uk)