Speed limit rules are changing for drivers across the country

Speed limit rules are changing for drivers across the country and journeys will be faster as a result.

Anyone who regularly travels through roadworks on their daily journeys knows just how frustrating it can be.

But now changes are being made to speed up traffic while keeping everyone safe at the same time.

According to Cambridgeshire Live, Highways England have announced a major change to speed restrictions in roadwork zones.

The speed limit for driving through roadworks will now be 60mph - that’s 10mph faster than the current 50mph norm.

The move comes after many road users had complained about not being able to drive quicker.

Extensive research and trials carried out by Highways England apparently showed that, where safe for road users and roadworkers, it is safe to increase the speed limit.

The results also showed the changes saved time and that drivers stuck to the 60mph limit.

The 60mph through roadworks trial looked at different "scenarios" within roadworks on England’s strategic road network of motorways, including on the M1, M6 and M4.

The findings showed using 60mph within roadworks on eight road schemes resulted in drivers saving on average (across all sites) up to almost 3,780 hours journey time each day.

Although average speeds increased, more drivers stayed within the speed limit than when compared to driving at 50mph.

Get the latest traffic and travel news straight to your inbox by entering your postcode below

Jim O’Sullivan, Highways England Chief Executive, said: "All of our research shows that road users benefit from 60mph limits in roadworks. They have shorter journey times and feel safe.

"Road users understand that roadworks are necessary, but they are frustrated by them.

"So testing 60mph has been about challenging the norm while ensuring the safety of our people working out there and those using our roads."