A 50mph speed limit has been introduced on the A249 Sheppey Crossing in Kent, after a coroner asked Highways England to consider urgent safety measures on the bridge.
This followed a serious incident when a mother and son were killed in a collision on the bridge in July last year.
Police recommended the speed limit on the bridge, which is the main link between the M2 at Stockbury and Sheerness, was changed from 70mph to 50mph following their deaths.
A Highways England spokesperson said: “Safety is Highways England’s top priority. We are fully supporting the inquest into the tragic incident that happened on the Sheppey Crossing last July. The coroner in the pre-inquest hearing has recommended urgent action. In the interim, before the full inquest has taken place, Highways England has taken the decision to introduce a temporary speed limit on the basis that we need to assess whether such a measure would improve safety. Our objective is ensuring safe and reliable journeys on the A249 and the Sheppey Crossing for the 30,000 drivers who depend on it every day.”
The 50mph speed limit is in place in both directions on the A249 between its junction with the B2005 at Grovehurst Rd and the Neats Court Roundabout near Thomsett Way.
It will be carefully assessed to monitor its effect on road safety and Highways England will continue to keep the safety performance of the A249 under constant review.
The Crossing was also the scene of a 150-car pile-up in September 2013.
