M1 Bedfordshire 'arbitrary' speed limits criticised

The variable speed limits are displayed on the gantries above the M1

Almost 20,000 people have been caught speeding on the M1 in Bedfordshire since a variable speed limit was introduced in September 2013, raising more than £1.7m in fines.

Nearly half of those caught were driving at less than the standard 70mph (110km/h) limit, the BBC discovered.

Motoring journalist Quentin Willson said there were concerns about "arbitrary" speed limits.

The Highways Agency said variable speed limits helped cut congestion.

The static speed cameras are installed on the north and southbound carriageways between junctions 10 and 11, and junctions 12 and 13.

When the 70mph speed limit on the motorway is deemed unsafe, a lower speed limit is displayed on digital signs on gantries over the road.

The figures show 9,530 of the 19,872 drivers caught speeding on the M1 in Bedfordshire were travelling at less than 70mph

• Marco from St Albans said he thought the 50mph (80km/h) and 40mph (64km/h) "advisory only", adding: "Luckily I have yet to get a ticket."
• David from Hemel Hempstead said: "I can't understand how any driver can complain about speed limits. A limit means just that. British drivers are the most irresponsible and arrogant in Europe."
• Alia in Toddington said: "I never knew you could get a fine or points if your drive over the gantry speed limits."
• Tom in Milton Keynes said: "I don't understand the cameras on the motorway. In some parts, if you drive at the gantry speed limit everyone passes you."

The BBC Three Counties Radio Freedom of Information request found that 19,872 drivers had been caught speeding.

It found that 9,530 of these drivers (48%) had been travelling at less than 70mph.

Mr Wilson, who has teamed up with road group the RAC to campaign for better motorways, said: "People don't understand why the speed limits are so arbitrary.

"Confidence in this system (of variable speed limits) is beginning to evaporate."

Bedfordshire Police said: "The cameras work automatically one minute after the speed limit is changed.

"Once changed, the sign becomes a legal limit and it is our duty to enforce these. The cameras are not a revenue-raising initiative but are for ensuring road safety."

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "Variable speed limits on smart motorways help to improve journey times, reduce congestion and keep journeys safe for millions of drivers every day.

"The vast majority of motorists are sticking to the speed limits. The tiny minority of motorists who do speed put other drivers and themselves at risk."