Over 1000 Drivers Prosecuted for Speeding Through M6 Roadworks South of Penrith in June

More than 1,000 drivers were prosecuted in June for speeding through 40mph limits at roadworks on the M6 south of Penrith at Clifton, where two major bridge project are under way.

A total of 1,163 speeding offences were recorded last month along a three-mile section of the motorway between junctions 39 and junction 40, where National Highways and Network rail are carrying out long-term infrastructure works.

The restrictions support the Clifton railway bridge replacement and Lowther Bridge works, both significant projects aimed at maintaining and improving the safety and resilience of the route.

The speed limit reduces to 50mph on initial approach to the works area and then 40mph through works that covers both the railway bridge and Lowther Bridge.

Traffic management measures will remain in place along the section of the M6 until March 2027 and include:

• A 40mph speed limit
• Narrow lanes and lane closures
• Two lanes open in both directions during the day
• A single lane running both ways overnight.

National Highways monitor the route with average speed cameras, with signage in place throughout. Drivers are being urged to observe the reduced limit for the safety of both the workforce and other road users.

Those caught speeding face fines and points on licence with fines from £100 to £2,500 possible for drivers caught speeding.

The majority of people speeding will be classed as committing a 'minor offence' and will still receive a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of a £100 fine and three points on their licence.

In some instances, however, the punishment can be more severe and you may be prosecuted in court leading to a significantly higher fine, more points on your licence or even a driving suspension or disqualification. This occurs for serious, excessive speeding offences - for example being caught driving at more than 100mph on the motorway.

As part of the ongoing works, the M6 southbound between junction 40 and junction 39 will be fully closed overnight on Sunday 20 July, from 8pm until 6am on Monday morning.

During the closure, traffic will be diverted via the A6, leaving the M6 at junction 40, continuing along the A66 to Kemplay Roundabout, then south on the A6 through Clifton to rejoin the M6 at junction 39 near Shap.

National Highways has advised drivers to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys, and follow all signed diversion routes.