Motoring groups warn over M1 speed limit change

MOTORING campaigners have warned that speed limits on motorways across the country could be cut after the Highways Agency announced plans for a 60mph zone on the M1.

The plan would come into effect between junction 28 of the M1 at Mansfield and junction 35a for Sheffield and Rotherham between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week.

The Highways Agency said the reduced speed limit would be used to help reduce emissions along the route.

But the RAC said the move could pave the way for similar speed restrictions on other sections of motorway.

The proposed reduction is part of the "smart motorway" scheme, which would involve the hard shoulder being used as an extra lane to ease congestion.

Environmental assessments carried out on the proposed scheme on the section of the M1 showed there was "likely to be an adverse impact on local air quality if the motorway continued to operate at the national speed limit", the Highways Agency said.

A consultation on the proposed speed reduction will run until March 3, with construction of the smart motorway scheme scheduled to start in the spring.

RAC technical director David Bizley said: "This is a landmark proposal as to the best of our knowledge motorway speed limits have not previously been lowered in order to comply with environmental legislation.

"If this becomes reality for the 34-mile stretch of the M1, which seems highly likely, it would certainly negate some of the current benefits of operating this section as a 'smart' motorway where motorists are allowed to use the hard shoulder to reduce congestion.

"More worryingly, it could pave the way for similar restrictions on other sections of motorway. While preserving air quality is obviously a paramount concern there will inevitably be a negative impact on business efficiency and individual mobility.

"This very powerfully demonstrates the impact that speed has on emissions and many will be surprised to hear that a reduction of just 10mph can have such a significant effect on improving air quality."

He added: "Perhaps the Government should be considering reintroduction of incentives to scrap older high polluting vehicles to minimise the need for speed restrictions of the type proposed."

By Press Association reporter