Explanatory note

These Regulations introduce variable speed limits on the M1 Motorway between junctions 6A and 10, and on the slip roads for entering and exiting at junctions 6A to 10.

Regulation 3 provides for variable speed limits to have effect on the roads specified in the Schedule. Where variable speed limit signs are in operation a vehicle may not be driven at a speed above the maximum indicated by each speed limit sign passed by the vehicle until it passes a sign indicating that the national speed limit applies or the vehicle leaves the roads covered by the regulation. Where a speed limit changes less than 10 seconds before a vehicle passes the sign and the sign had indicated a higher speed limit, the regulation allows a driver to proceed at a speed up to the maximum applicable before the change. Where the speed limit sign indicates a speed limit when it is passed by a vehicle but less than 10 seconds previously it was either giving no indication of a speed limit or that the national speed limit applied, the sign is to be taken as giving no indication of a speed limit to the vehicle passing it.

It is an offence to use a special road in contravention of regulations made under section 17(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

A copy of the impact assessment prepared in respect of these Regulations can be obtained from the Highways Agency Major Projects Team, The Cube, 199 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RN. A copy has been placed in the library of each House of Parliament and is also annexed to the Explanatory Memorandum which is available alongside the instrument on www.legislation.gov.uk