Confusion over whether M27 'system test' exposes secret that speed limits were never enforced
Many of you have been convinced for a long time that the cameras were never switched on
If you have driven along the M27 in the past couple of weeks, you will have noticed that the electronic signs are up and running once again.
During the time when roadworks were taking place between Junctions 5 and 7, all of the electronic boards across the motorway were switched off. In their place were physical signs, enforcing a 50mph speed limit as well as the bright yellow average speed cameras.
This was at a point where temporary lanes were being created so that a new concrete overlay could be put onto the motorway, replacing the old tarmac with a low-noise surface.
Now that all the lanes have been reopened, the signage now indicates that the 50mph speed limit is being enforced as part of a “system test”. But this has raised questions about whether the 50mph cameras were ever switched on - with many motorists convinced that they can't have been.
This because dashcam footage, anecdotes and comments from readers of The News showed that you could have driven at 70mph through there the whole time, and likely not be punished for it.
The News has even seen dashcam footage of vehicles doing upwards of 79mph, and still these motorists were not picked up for a speeding fine, with drivers coming to the conclusion is that the 50mph speed limit was never being properly enforced.
National Highways denies that this was the case, and insists that the 50mph speed limit was in force while the roadworks took place.
Richard Scrase, programme delivery manager at National Highways, said: “We’re grateful to motorists using the M27 for their continued patience as we move towards the final phase of technology testing following our major resurfacing work between junctions 5 and 7.
“This project has already delivered a quieter road surface, and we’ve also carried out significant drainage upgrades and improved safety in the central reservation. Together, these improvements have created a smoother, quieter and safer journey for drivers, while helping the road last for generations to come.”
A 50mph speed limit will remain in place until late June, National Highways confirmed, at which point the usual 70mph limit will be reinstated.
Prosecutions for speeding are handled by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. They have told The News that the speed limit was being enforced by average speed cameras, while the roadworks were being completed.