The UK government is facing calls to increase the national motorway speed limit to 80mph, following a new survey that reveals significant public support for the change.
Strong Public Backing for Higher Limits
The research, conducted by ChooseMyCar.com, found that 43% of Brits are in favour of raising the current 70mph limit on motorways. This indicates a substantial portion of the population believes the rules, established decades ago, are due for a modern update.
Nick Zapolski, founder of ChooseMyCar.com, stated that the data suggests many Brits are ready for a formal review. He commented, "Modern-day cars have improved beyond comparison in the last 60 years - and yet the motorway limit has remained the same. This does seem ludicrous, and it seems many Brits are already driving beyond the limit anyway."
A Divided Opinion: Gender and Age Gaps
Delving deeper into the data reveals a clear split in opinion across different demographics. The survey, dated 15 November 2025, shows that support is significantly stronger among men.
55% of male drivers agreed with the proposed increase, compared to just 32% of women.
An even more pronounced generational divide was uncovered. The most supportive age group was Gen Z, with a striking 59% of drivers aged 18-34 endorsing the move to an 80mph limit. This contrasts sharply with the over-55s, where support plummeted to just 30%.
Current Trends and Future Possibilities
This push for higher limits comes at a time when speed regulations have generally been moving in the opposite direction. The widespread introduction of smart motorways has often led to reduced speed limits at certain times to manage congestion and safety.
Furthermore, many local councils and police forces have been prioritising safety in urban areas by implementing more 20mph and 30mph zones.
Despite this trend, advocates for change point to the enhanced safety features of modern vehicles as a key reason to reconsider the motorway limit. The survey also found that nearly a third (29%) of drivers admitted to already regularly travelling at 80mph or faster on motorways.
Nick Zapolski concluded, "Our research suggests that Brits are ready for a review of the limit, perhaps more in line with some of our European neighbours." Whether this public sentiment will trigger a governmental review remains to be seen.
