M25 speed limit 'expected to last a while’ but motorway will now have major change

Experts have predicted that delays on the M25 motorway could "last a while", in a major blow to commuters and locals. National Highways have temporary speed restrictions in place across two sections of the M25 while experts test new Stopped Vehicle Detection (SVD) tools.

Speeds have been cut from 70mph to 50mph between junctions 5 and 7 of the M25 in Surrey and Kent. The section of M25 has been fitted with nine new emergency areas. SVD tools are being tested to see if the tech can pick up broken-down vehicles stopping on the road. Restrictions are also in place between junctions 23 and 27 in Hertfordshire and Essex while 15 emergency areas are checked. National Highways has suggested the checks should take up to 12 weeks to complete, but actually their site calls the date on when restrictions could end as 'TBC'.

AA’s Jack Cousens has now admitted the limits may apply for a while and warned road users the section of road will likely never be the same.

The installation of a new smart motorway scheme means limits could be adjusted by experts remotely, meaning a full and permanent return to 70mph is unlikely.

He 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."

Stopped Vehicle Detection uses radars to scan the road and pick up vehicles that have come to a stop. The technology is specifically designed to detect a stationary vehicle and alert officials who can react in seconds.

Chiefs will have the option to adjust speed limits to slow down cars or close lanes altogether. National Highways has confirmed officials have been upgrading Stopped Vehicle Detection technology to the latest standards on two sections of the M25.

They stressed teams are working hard to reduce the 12-week target and hopes to restore the national speed limit at the earliest opportunity. 

In a statement to Express.co.uk, National Highways Regional Sponsor Nick Wells said the speed limits were an "extra safety precaution".

Nick said: "We are continuing work to test the upgraded Stopped Vehicle Detection (SVD) technology that we installed on this section of the M25. A temporary 50mph speed limit remains in place during this time along with dedicated extra CCTV and a free recovery service.

"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."