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In a bid to tackle pollution, Highways England will reduce the speed limit on four stretches of motorways in September 2020, with the objective of reducing vehicle pollution. The lower speed limit will help see how lower speed limits impact on pollution levels in the given areas.

It’s estimated that around 40,000 deaths each year are attributed to air pollution, and the government have identified 101 parts of Englands road network, where NO2 level are potentially exceeding recommended levels.

The 60mph speed limit will be enforced, 24 hours a day on these motorways:

  • M6 between J6 and 7 (near Birmingham)
  • M1 between J33 and 34 (at Rotherham, South Yorkshire)
  • M602 between J1 and 3 (near Eccles, Greater Manchester)
  • M5 between J1 and 2 (at Oldbury, West Midlands)

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Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit could face a £100 fine, and have 3 penalty points on their licence. Highways England expect a drop in NO2 levels from this lower speed limit. However, if it’s not having the desired impact after 12 to 15 months, then the 60mph limit will more than likely be removed.


Reducing Pollution When Driving – Key Tips:

It’s not just a lower speed, which can reduce emissions and pollution when driving, here are a few easy tips you can follow to save fuel and the environment:

  1. Check tyre pressures – Tyre pressures, which are too low can increase fuel consumption and pollution, not to mention have a detrimental impact on the handling and braking efficiency of your vehicle. With tyre pressures keep within the manufacturers recommendations.
  2. Reduce Weight – Removing heavy items in your vehicle will improve MPG and in turn reduce pollution. The same goes for things like roof bars and roof boxes, which are not in use – the wind drag will cause your vehicle to do more work to keep moving.
  3. Regular Servicing – Making sure your vehicle is in tip top condition will help make it more efficient. An efficient vehicle will generally be less polluting.
  4. Observation and Planning – A key part of advanced driving is all about observation and forward planning. By seeing what’s going on further ahead, you’re less likely to display hard braking and harsh acceleration habits, both of which are dreadful for fuel efficiency. Most drivers can save up to 20% on your fuel bills, by improving these critical elements.

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If you’re looking at improving your skill and confidence when on motorways, you may be interested in our bespoke motorway driving course – available across all of the UK.