A 50mph limit which is “causing absolute havoc” on two sections of the M25 could remain for another 12 weeks.

The speed restriction was brought in between junction 5 for Clacket Lane and 7 for the M23 in April after work to build additional emergency areas ended.

National Highways is carrying out the work on all of its lanes running smart motorways in the south east.

Although the roadworks came to an end on April 23, the speed restrictions remain in place as further testing is carried out. This could last around 12 weeks.

National Highways says the speed limit relates to retrofit work, which means all the new technology which has been installed with be “finely adjusted” to suit the environment of the road.

It said: “This can only happen when there are no roadworks and when drivers are able to use all lanes of the motorway.”

But those living in Sevenoaks are far from impressed that the restriction will continue.

Motorist Nancy Spearpoint, 55, told KentOnline the restrictions were “ridiculous” adding that “everyone’s fed up with it”.

She said: “I think they are pointless, causing absolute havoc, everyone I speak to says how disruptive it is and it's making everyone’s lives hell and very stressful.”

Paul Alford, 62, said: “I think it’s a little bit dangerous and very frustrating for drivers.

“People get frustrated. If everybody goes 50mph it would flow nicely but people are going faster, slowing down for cameras, braking, and as far as I’m concerned you shouldn’t need to brake when you are on the motorway.

“I’m not going to lose any sleep over it, but I don’t think it’s particularly helpful.”

Meanwhile, Sydney Meopham thinks that 12 weeks “is a bit excessive” for testing cameras.

He said: “I assumed the speed limit was there because of the M26 and the M25 merging, trying to do some sort of traffic flow, but for testing cameras - that’s ridiculous!”

As part of these tests, National Highways has said there will also be regular overnight restrictions, including closures and diversion.

It added: “Dedicated monitoring of temporary CCTV and free recovery will remain in place. Once the system meets our rigorous performance specification, the speed will be increased to the national speed limit.

“When we can remove the speed limit is determined by when the newly installed system is performing to our specification, rather than a strict timescale.

“This usually takes around 12 weeks; we are working hard to reduce this and will restore the national speed limit at the earliest opportunity.”

Kelly Bennett, 58, said she was surprised that the speed limit would continue, stating she had seen more road works than she’d seen people work.

“I’m actually sorry to hear they are going to continue because it does really slow things down.

“I live right near Westerham, so it does have a knock-on effect so once it’s clear I’ll be very happy.”