National Highways says it does not believe there were any injuries or incidents as a result of a software outage on the smart motorway network yesterday (22 February).

Operation Control Director Andrew Page-Dove told the BBC that engineers worked to repair the system as soon as possible, and that National Highways had increased patrols and CCTV monitoring during the outage.

Stopped Vehicle Detection monitoring on the M5, M6, M62 and M60 plus some of the M1 failed for around two hours.

Operators were also unable to set Variable Message Signs, while Red X signs already set could not be switched off.

The Telegraph quotes Mr Page-Dove as saying “We have well-rehearsed procedures to deal with issues which arise. We rapidly took steps to help ensure the safety of road users such as increased patrols and CCTV monitoring.”

(File picture – National Highways)