Stopped vehicle detection technology will be implemented on all smart motorways by September 2022

06 May 2021

The UK government has promised that all existing smart motorways will have stopped vehicle detection technology six months ahead of schedule, by September 2022, and that no new smart motorways will be opened without the technology.

The Highway Code will also be updated to provide further guidance about driving on smart motorways.

Smart motorways have been in the spotlight for the past year, with their safety called into question earlier this year. It was also confirmed that, despite legislation which allows ‘closed lane’ signs to be camera-enforced, camera infrastructure will not be fully upgraded until 2022. 

Highways England also recently launched its ‘go left!’ campaign, which offers drivers guidance in the event that they break down on a smart motorway, but safety concerns remain unresolved.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said, “Despite the data showing that fatalities are less likely on All Lane Running motorways than on conventional ones, this doesn’t mean all drivers necessarily feel safe on them.

“That is why I tasked Highways England last year with delivering an action plan to raise the bar on safety measures even higher. This progress report shows the extensive work already carried out, but we want to do more.

“So-called smart motorways started to be built in 2001 and I am determined to ensure that technology and exacting standards are in place.”

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