Speed limits on some UK motorways to be cut down to 50mph from TODAY in bid to reduce pollution levels
The Welsh Government has cut speed limits on some of the nation's busiest roads, hoping it will reduce pollution - and they claim it could slash emissions levels by up to 18 per cent
SPEED limits on some British motorways and dual carriageways will be cut down to 50mph from today.
Sections of five major roads across Wales will be affected by the changes, which are being introduced in a bid to reduce pollution levels.
The Welsh Government is imposing the temporary restrictions around the country in the hope they will reduce the impact of vehicle emissions.
Levels of toxic nitrogen dioxide are thought to be emitted at their lowest when cars are travelling between 40mph and 50mph.
And according to the Government, dropping the speed limit by 20mph in high-traffic areas could reduce emissions levels by as much as 18 per cent.
While the restrictions are currently only coming into force in Wales on certain highways, according to Highways England, there are no current plans to extend similar regulations to other parts of the UK.
Roads and motorways affected by the 50mph speed restriction
- A494 at Deeside
- A483 at Wrexham
- M4 between Junctions 41 & 42 (Port Talbot)
- M4 between junctions 25 & 26 (Newport)
- A470 between Upper Boat & Pontypridd
Hannah Blythyn, Welsh Minister for Environment, told : “We have been carrying out investigations into all potential measures for reducing nitrogen dioxide levels.
“Our initial studies tell us that 50mph speed limits should have the greatest potential to improve air quality at each location.
“Current levels of nitrogen dioxide exceed the legal limit at the five road locations, so we need to act.
“The actions we take to improve air quality in Wales have a key role in supporting the right conditions for better health and well-being.
“We will encourage local authorities to introduce Clean Air Zones, where evidence suggests they are needed to reduce harmful emissions, as well as launching a new website which allows people to check the air quality in their area.”