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Court Bans Drivers for 60mph Variable-Limit Breaches as Poll Backs 80mph Review

The DfT says there is no plan to raise motorway limits, citing the need for evidence on safety, emissions, traffic.

Overview

  • A 51-year-old in South Gloucestershire was clocked at 68mph under a 60mph variable limit on the M4/M5 and received £755 in charges and a six-month disqualification at Bath Law Courts.
  • The charges comprised a £461 fine, a £184 surcharge, and £110 in costs, as reported from regional court records.
  • A separate Dorset case recorded 71mph under a 60mph limit last December, resulting in a six-month ban plus a £346 fine, £138 surcharge, and £90 costs.
  • National Highways says variable limits appear on gantries or roadside signs, include a brief self-check that can resemble a flash, and police apply a minimum delay before enforcement after changes.
  • New polling for ChooseMyCar.com reports 43% support for an 80mph motorway cap, though ministers reiterate that any review would be evidence-led across safety, air quality, carbon emissions, and traffic flow.