Frustration is mounting for drivers and local residents as the 50mph speed limit on the M25 between junction 5 (Clacket Lane) and junction 7 (M23) continues to slow traffic. Although the official roadworks ended on April 23, the reduced speed zone is set to remain for an additional 12 weeks.
National Highways has confirmed that the lower speed limit will not be lifted yet. The delay is necessary to complete post-project testing and system calibration of the new smart motorway features installed along this stretch of the motorway.
The speed restriction was initially introduced after emergency refuge areas were installed. A spokesperson from National Highways said, “This can only happen when all lanes are open. Once the system meets our rigorous standards, the national speed limit will be restored.”
Commuters and residents have expressed anger over the ongoing enforcement of the 50mph limit, which has caused significant delays and traffic congestion. To finalise the smart motorway setup, further overnight closures and diversions are expected in the coming weeks.
For now, drivers caught in the slow lane will have to be patient while National Highways continues to adjust and test the motorway’s new technology, prolonging the current disruption on this busy section of the M25.
Originally published by UKNIP.
