M4 Speed limit change - beware

[steve]

As of Monday 6th April 2009

The section of M4 from the Coldra and beyond the "tunnels" is subject to a 50 MPH speed limit. It looks pretty permanent rather than a temp measure for roadworks.

So beware - no doubt this will be enforced and the fixed penalties issued :-(

[Admin]

Majority of people seem to be sticking to the limit but still a fair portion totally ignoring it.

I remember when they introduced 50mph speed limit on the bridge toll booth approach (heading into Wales). The signs went up and after several weeks, most drivers began ignoring them and reverting back to 70mph+. Then the speed vans appeared and caught a lot of people by surprise.

So I 2nd Steve's advice, don't be lulled into thinking there's no enforcement, there may simply be none yet.

[ccc49]

I was travelling to the Caerleon intersection from Langstone this morning at a sedate 50 MPH and confirm that most vehicles were also abiding by the new limit. However in lane 3 a police motorcycle overtook us all in excess of the limit without any blue lights on and so probably not responding to an emergency. Not a good example I think you would agree.:eek:

How are we expected to conform to the law when the law enforcers are clearly breaking it?:confused:

[Admin]

Spotted police car on slip road of J25 (east bound) this morning (0915). Might have been a random occurrence but It's made me wary. It's been several week since restriction was imposed and I think they'll now start upping reenforcement.

[steve]

Hint

Expect Average Speed camera system in the near future on this stretch of motorway

[steve]

First Average Speed Camera gantry is in place Westbound just before Coldra exit.

[Admin]

Cheers Steve. I reckon this is going to catch a fair few people, there's still plenty of them flying past me to and from work.

[kristie]

There are a few distinctive yellow cameras between J24 and 25 westbound I saw today for the first time - I take it these are the 'average speed' cameras?

[steve]

Yes those are the "pillars and arms" that the cameras are mounted on

[steve]

Just announced this morning by WAG

The M4 is to get variable speed limits "to improve traffic flow" and the precursor is an Order allowing the M4 to be closed between 20:00 and 06:00 for the necessary installation / improvement work, between Magor and Tredegar Park. until August Bank Holiday 2010

And yes when the M4 is closed at Magor, the diversion route is from the Brewery to Langstone then along to A48 to rejoin at the Coldra ! :pout:

[steve]

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/4583875.More_M4_misery_to_come/

[Admin]

We were in Highcross Friday evening and on route back to Langstone we forgot about the overnight M4 closure. Not a huge diversion through Newport town but an unexpected inconvenience.