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Sheppey Crossing: Drivers caught breaking 50mph limit on dashcam in exclusive video

Drivers are continuing to ignore the temporary 50mph speed limit at the Sheppey Crossing, according to an exclusive KMTV investigation.

Despite several horrific accidents and the installation of speed cameras at the bridge, many drivers are travelling at dangerously high speeds.

KM reporter Ben Kennedy fixed a dashcam to his car and took three return journeys on the crossing, to see how many drivers overtook him while he stuck to the legal speed limit.

VIDEO: Drivers continue to ignore 50mph limit on Sheppey Crossing. Ben Kennedy reports

To find out the result, watch the exclusive video above.

The findings come following several serious crashes on the bridge, including the death of a mother and son Deborah and Marshall Roberts in July 2014.

The video prompted a swift response from Highways England, who set up speed cameras in December 2015. However, they currently do not penalise drivers who exceed 50mph.

A Highways England spokesman said: "Safety is Highways England’s top priority. The crossing has brought real benefits to the Isle of Sheppey and the wider region, and in many respects has a strong safety record, having a generally low rate of collisions over the past ten years.

The 50mph speed limit was introduced following safety concerns
The 50mph speed limit was introduced following safety concerns

"The 50mph speed limit is an interim measure, introduced using temporary signs, following a coroner’s request for urgent action to be taken after the tragic incident in July 2014.

"The speed limit is clearly signed and it is disappointing that some drivers continue to ignore the speed limit putting themselves and others at risk; drivers must play their part in maintaining safety.

"We are working with Kent Police to identify what can be done to allow them to start enforcing the limit."

The Sheppey Crossing
The Sheppey Crossing

While Highways England can use cameras to monitor traffic flow, the power to use the technology to penalise drivers lies with Kent Police.

The temporary speed zone will be in place for just over a year, during which time plans are being made for a more permanent solution.

Because of its design, the Sheppey Crossing cannot have any signs or other devices installed on the bridge itself.

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