Hundreds of motorists in England are being hit with £100 penalties each week for breaking a temporary speed restriction on a major Kent road, with data revealing a significant enforcement operation is underway.
Surge in Penalties on Damaged Road Stretch
Approximately 300 drivers per week are receiving fines for exceeding a 50mph limit on a section of the A299 Thanet Way, described as a "rollercoaster" stretch. Official figures show that in just 39 days, a total of 1,648 motorists were caught speeding on the nine-mile route between Dargate services and the Roman Galley.
With each offence carrying a standard £100 penalty, the temporary measure has generated an estimated £170,000 in little over a month. The council imposed the limit as an "urgent safety measure," citing dangers posed by areas of uneven road surface believed to have been caused by last summer's heatwaves.
Council and Police Stress Safety First
A council spokesperson, commenting back in September, acknowledged the frustration but emphasised the priority. "We know this will be frustrating news to many people, and we apologise for the disruption this may cause. But people's safety must come first," they stated.
The spokesperson urged caution, adding: "These temporary speed limits are essential while we assess the damage. I would urge drivers to slow down and stay alert while driving through this stretch of the A299 - your caution helps to keep everyone safe."
Inspector David Crompton of Kent Police reinforced the message, stating plainly: "The message is simple, respect the speed limit or face potential police action, including a fine, points on your licence or an appearance in court."
Fears Over Long-Term Solution and Timelines
Concerns are mounting regarding how long the restrictive measures will remain in place. Local MP Sir Roger Gale, representing Herne Bay and Sandwich, sympathised with drivers but underscored the safety need. "If you take your mind off it for 30 seconds, I can see that people are being caught out - but that may be for their safety. But we have to get it sorted - and quickly," he said.
These concerns were echoed by Dan Watkins, a former deputy cabinet member for highways, who expressed frustration at the perceived lack of progress. "We're no further, two months on, to understand what the solution could be and what the timeline of that solution might be," he remarked.
Mr Watkins warned the 50mph limit could persist for "months or even years," questioning the commitment to a timely repair. "If nothing's happened in two months, and there's not even a timeline for when the initial report may come forward, what's the hope they'll actually fix it in a reasonable timeframe?"
The council has noted that due to changing ground conditions, a properly engineered solution is required, and they are currently exploring a range of options.
