National Highways has apologised after what it calls “unexpected issues” left motorists seeing random lane closure signs on sections of smart motorway in England.

The BBC reports problems were reported by drivers on the M6, M1 and A1(M), with “mile upon mile” of lane closure warnings and “unreadable” overhead signs.

Speed limits were placed on some routes and extra traffic patrols introduced.

Andrew Page-Dove of National Highways told the broadcaster: “As with any technology, there are occasional outages and so we have well-rehearsed procedures to deal with issues which arise.

“We took additional measures to limit any impact on drivers or traffic flow, including extra traffic officer patrols and, virtual CCTV patrols.

“We took the decision to reset the systems to ensure any errors were rectified as swiftly as possible.”

Posting on social media drivers complained of gantry signs displaying two different speed limits and incorrect lane closures while others were so bright they “hindered night vision”.

(File picture – Highways News)