Odd speed limit signing, is it enforcible?

[aww999]

Some long term roadworks have recently started up on a NSL road on my way to work. A major property development is taking place on one side of the road and I guess due to heavy plant traffic etc, they have posted a 40mph limit. However, instead of the conventional speed limit signs, there is a square yellow board on the ground on each side of the road saying "Roadworks 40mph speed limit" or similar. There are still NSL repeaters in place throughout the duration of the limit, no 40mph repeaters present.

I have no problem with slowing down while work is taking place, but there are long stretches of this section where any hazards in the carriageway or at the roadside would be immediately apprent from a long way off. If I choose to drive through there late at night at 60mph on a clear section, could I still be busted by the cops or does the signing make the limit "advisory"?

[dazren]

My understanding is that unless the 30/40/50 is within a red circle it is unenforcable. Hence the variable limits on the M25 are enforcacle, but many of the 40mph signs prior to corners on NSL's are not enforcable as they are not within red circles.

DAZ

>> Edited by dazren on Thursday 15th May 15:39

[icamm]

IIRC the signs need to be of the proper type (circle, white, red boarder, black numbering) at the sides of the carriage way with correct repeaters to be enforcible. Mind you I would make sure you have pictures to prove it's all signed wrong just in case you get a NIP.

[Flat in Fifth]

icamm is spot on, incl need for repeaters.

Specifically the signs need to conform to;

Statutory Instrument 2002 No. 3113
The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002

If not the limit is potentially unenforceable.

http://tinyurl.com/b9kq

above link will take you to the regs themselves. This will give you the info you need, after a bit of wading I'm afraid. Incl size of signs, lettering what have you.

Also pls note you don't need another speed limit e.g. the white circle black stripe NSL sign at the end. The roadworks end sign cancels out any temporary restrictions. The exception to this last part is if the original speed limit changed during the road works.

Hope that helps clarify things.