RAC response to DfT proposals to find alternatives to a mandatory 60mph limit on M1 and M3

RAC technical director David Bizley said: “This is good news all round. Motorists will be very pleased that the schemes to introduce additional capacity on sections of the M1 and M3 are to go ahead shortly.

“Following the landmark announcement in early January about proposals for a reduced speed limit of 60mph during substantial parts of the working day on these stretches of motorway in order to protect air quality in the area, we were concerned that other similar limits might be necessary as more ‘smart motorway’ hard shoulder-running schemes are introduced. It is therefore good news that the Secretary of State for Transport has listened to road users and recognised that a 60mph limit on these stretches of the M1 and M3 is the thin end of the wedge.

“The Government has heavily invested in the smart motorway concept so imposition of 60mph limits on these stretches at times when congestion is not at a level to justify a reduced speed limits would have undermined the benefits for road users. However, we also should be mindful that a solution that does not breach air quality limits and keeps traffic moving at 70mph may not be achievable. Let’s hope for the sake of motorists and businesses alike that it is.”

Press office team

Press office team

For journalist enquiries only

Share

Latest News

Website preview
Drivers support court-ordered ‘alcolocks’ to tackle drink-drive reoffending 
RAC encourages the Government to take a different approach to reduce drink-drive collisions
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Maddened by maintenance? Quarter of drivers see car servicing and repairs as a hassle
‘Repairs rigmarole’ solved with RAC’s nationwide network of mobile mechanics who can service and repair vehicles at home or work
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Second month of lower fuel prices as petrol and diesel fall by 2p a litre in April
RAC calls for further cuts at the pumps to reflect lower wholesale costs
media.rac.co.uk

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic UK brand, and provides complete peace of mind to nearly 14 million UK private and business drivers - whatever their motoring needs. As well as its premium nationwide breakdown assistance service – with an expert branded patrol workforce attending more than two million breakdowns every year – and European breakdown assistance products, it offers a wide range of market-leading products across insurance, legal services, vehicle inspections and service, maintenance and repair. Included in this is the first-of-its-kind nationwide Mobile Mechanics service which brings the garage to homes and workplaces. 

At the forefront of new solutions for business fleets and consumers, the RAC’s breakdown service is electric-ready with mobile EV charging technology and be called on using myRAC – its all-in-one route planner, fuel finder and breakdown reporting app