Drivers using the M5 in Somerset are facing significant speed restrictions as National Highways implements a month-long 60mph trial on a busy stretch of the motorway.
The reduced limit will be in force between junction 23 at Bridgwater and junction 22 at Burnham-on-Sea from Monday, March 18th, continuing for approximately four weeks. This 13-mile section will see mandatory lower speeds as part of a safety initiative aimed at reducing pollution levels and improving air quality for local communities.
Why the speed reduction?
A National Highways spokesperson explained the rationale behind the trial: "We're implementing this temporary speed limit to monitor whether reduced speeds can effectively lower emissions in this corridor. The data gathered will help inform our future approach to managing air quality on this vital route."
The organisation emphasised that this forms part of their broader environmental strategy, with similar trials being considered for other sections of the motorway network where air quality concerns have been identified.
What drivers need to know
The speed restriction will be clearly signed with electronic message boards and temporary signage. Average speed cameras will be activated to enforce compliance, meaning drivers maintaining speeds above 60mph could face penalties.
Local businesses and commuters have expressed mixed reactions to the news. While some welcome the potential environmental benefits, others have raised concerns about journey time increases and the impact on commercial transport operations.
National Highways has advised motorists to allow extra time for their journeys during this period and to pay close attention to the variable message signs for updates on the trial's progress.
