New M-way limits to cut congestion and noise
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Variable speed limits will soon be
imposed on the M20 in a bid to cut congestion and carbon
emissions.
The Highways Agency this week
revealed it is pushing ahead with plans to impose the limits
between junction 4 (Leybourne) and junction 7 (Detling).
Once the scheme is in place,
motorists have to check electronic signs above the motorway lanes
for the speed limit - which will still be a maximum of 70mph.
It will be enforced with speed
cameras. A similar scheme is already used in some parts of the
M25.
The area was chosen because
"Maidstone has suffered from peak-time congestion problems for some
considerable time", the report said.
Motorists were consulted on the
plan through the Highways Agency website last year. Just 73 people
responded, with 41 of them in favour.
Of those against, most expressed
concern that variable limits do not work on the M25 and that the
scheme would need increased police patrols to work.
Others suggested that money should
be invested to control foreign vehicles on the M20 instead.
But variable speed limits have been
backed by Maidstone council, Tonbridge and Malling council, and
KCC. Supporters of the scheme said the main benefit would be
reduced noise.
A Highways Agency spokesman said:
"Controlled motorways are designed to smooth traffic flows and make
journeys more reliable by reducing the stop-start effect of traffic
during busy periods.
"A controlled motorway also has a
positive impact on the surrounding area by reducing noise and air
pollution from the road.
"The M20 Junction 4-7 controlled
motorway scheme went to public consultation last summer. The
response to the consultation was largely positive, so we are taking
the scheme to the next stage.
"We will make an announcement in
due course."
Monday, March 08 2010
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