Speed enforcement in operation on M54 in Telford
News from our partners Safer Roads Partnership
The Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia is reminding all motorists travelling along the M54 that a temporary 50mph speed limit is in place between junctions 6 and 7 in Telford while essential roadworks take place.
The roadworks are in place for 30 weeks while bridge repairs are carried out. Narrow lanes are in operation and a temporary 50mph speed limit applies, which is being enforced by average speed cameras.
Anna Higgins, Communications Manager at the Safer Roads Partnership, said:
“Speed enforcement on this stretch of the M54 is necessary while roadworks are taking place. Our main concern, and the reason why we are undertaking enforcement, is to ensure that both motorists and road workers are kept safe. Enforcement is taking place 24 hours a day by average speed cameras. We are therefore urging all motorists to exercise caution as they travel through the area and comply with the speed limit, which is clearly marked.”
The Highways Agency re-emphasised the importance of adhering to the speed limits. In the last three years eight road workers have been killed, and during the last 12 months there have been 1,747 incidents nationwide where road workers have been injured while improving and maintaining the strategic road network in England. In addition, there are many near misses, with members of the public driving through coned off areas or colliding with works vehicles.
Wayne Norris, who leads on road worker safety in the Midlands for the Highways Agency, said:
“We are committed to eliminating all fatalities, serious injuries and long-term ill health to road workers maintaining our roads. Road workers do a difficult and dangerous job carrying out vital work to keep our roads safe and well-maintained. But they face danger every day while working close to fast moving traffic, in all weather conditions and often at night.
“Speed limits, cones and narrow lanes are there to keep road users safe, as well as provide a safe area for workers – often enabling us to keep roads open while essential work takes place. We realise roadworks can be frustrating, but we would urge everyone to question whether it is worth risking people’s lives to save a few minutes on their journey.”
Scott Millar, Account Director for Area 9 at Amey, said:
“We are pleased that average speed cameras are in use while we complete our works on the M54. These are an effective tool in reducing the speed through the works, which greatly improves safety for both our road workers and the road users.”
