Highways Agency - Safe roads, Reliable journeys, Informed travellers

Published: 22 August 2011

Close date: 14 October 2011

What is this consultation about?

We are consulting on the content of the proposed draft M1 Motorway (Junctions 10 to 13) (Variable Speed Limits and Actively Managed Hard Shoulder) Regulations that provide for the operation of variable speed limits and hard shoulder running between junctions 10 and 13 of the M1 motorway near Luton and in Bedfordshire. The Consultation Paper describes the effects of the proposed draft Regulations.

Why do we need the Managed Motorway scheme?

In December 2009, work started on making better use of the M1 motorway between junctions 10 and 13. This work aims to;

• Achieve best use of existing road space;
• Respond more quickly to incidents and reduce clear-up times; and
• Reduce congestion and increase the reliability of journey times.

The use of variable mandatory speed limits and hard shoulder running are essential elements in achieving these objectives. They aim to tackle congestion through the introduction of new technology to make best use of the existing road space whilst maintaining, and where possible, improving current safety standards.

How to Respond

Please respond to the consultation using the online Consultation Response Form.

Alternatively, you can respond in writing using the "Consultation Response Form" at Appendix D to the address below.

When responding, please state whether you are responding as an individual or representing the views of an organisation. If responding on behalf of a larger organisation please make it clear who the organisation represents, and where applicable, how the views of its members were assembled.

Please let us have your comments by the 14th October 2011.

After the Consultation

All responses received from consultees within the consultation period will be considered and responded to as necessary. Following the consultation, a summary report will be made available on this website. The summary report will provide an analysis of responses received and the Highways Agency's response.

Subject to the results of the consultation, we envisage that the M1 Junctions 10 to 13 Managed Motorway scheme as a whole will be implemented by April 2013. It is possible that some sections of the scheme will be opened earlier.

Further Information

To receive further information on the M1 junction 10 to junction 13 Managed Motorway Scheme you can contact the project team via the address or email address provided below. Alternatively visit the M1 Jct 10 to 13 Improvements web page.