National Highways has published its fourth and final Smart Motorways Stocktake Progress Report, outlining the completion of key safety initiatives and providing updated analysis on smart motorway performance.
The report confirmed that all 2020 stocktake actions have been implemented, including the installation of radar-based Stopped Vehicle Detection (SVD) technology on all All Lane Running (ALR) motorways.
National Highways chief executive, Nick Harris said: “Our latest analysis continues to show that overall, in terms of deaths or serious injuries, smart motorways remain our safest roads.”
This means that over 700 additional signs have been placed to inform drivers of emergency stopping points, and enforcement cameras have been upgraded to improve compliance with Red X lane closures.
The report highlighted that no new smart motorways will be built following the UK Government’s 2023 decision to halt further expansion. However, £900m in additional safety enhancements is being delivered on existing smart motorways, including the construction of over 150 new emergency stopping areas by March 2025.
PIC-NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The findings reinforce that while smart motorways remain a debated issue, ongoing safety measures and infrastructure improvements are helping to enhance their performance and reliability for road users.
