You said the EU was responsible for the 50mph speed limit, I would like to see documents proving this as to whether I drive or not, that's irrelevant.
A bit touchy aren't we??
Ok here is the proof:
From TravelWales QAhttp://www.traffic-wales.com/news/m4-ju ... wered.aspxQ: Why is there a section of the west bound M4 variable speed limit section that never varies?
A: On the Westbound Carriageway, following the Brynglas Tunnel Fire in 2011, reduced lighting has been in operation which requires the
permanent display of a 50MPH speed limit being applied on the approach and travel through the tunnel. Welsh Government are seeking to provide a more permanent solution through provision of new lighting in the westbound bore of the tunnel. Such a solution will have a significant impact on the road network during works to install these and must therefore be carefully scoped and planned prior to any works taking place.
FOI key statement:Eich cyf / Your ref: ATISN 6307
Ein cyf / Our ref: Foi
1 August 2012
This is the information we have regarding the Brynglas Tunnels work :-
A contract has not yet been let for the replacement of the lighting within the
westbound bore of the M4 Brynglas tunnels. To avoid added disruption and abortive
works, the replacement of the lighting is being considered alongside a potential
scheme of improvements to the tunnel. This work would address other works
resulting from the fire, replacing equipment that is at or is approaching the end of
design life as well as ensuring all systems meet current legislative and design
standard requirements. We must also consider that when significant works such as
replacement of the lighting are undertaken, it is a requirement to
modify the
remaining tunnel systems to satisfy current legislative and design standards.
The works, designs, programme and subsequent costs are currently being compiled
into a business case. The Welsh Government will then prioritise accordingly and
select the most suitable approach, balancing capital costs versus the required tunnel
access times (disruption) of the various options.
The temporary speed restriction is continually being reviewed to ensure it is
still a suitable mitigation measure to the non-standard lighting arrangement
and that it doesn't cause undue congestion or restrictions on the network.
WAG Document M4 Corridor around Newporthttp://m4newport.com/assets/issue-m4-dr ... cument.pdf"Major maintenance works to the M4 will be required within the next 5-10 years, which could cause significant disruption. Significant maintenance works (that may be over a long period of time) are needed at the Brynglas Tunnels in order to satisfy an
EU Directive7 and meet current safety standards by 2014;"
EU Tunnel Directive on Strategic Routes:The current tunnels fail on a raft of issues such as:
2.8. Lighting
2.8.1. Normal lighting shall be provided so as to ensure appropriate visibility day and night for drivers in the entrance
zone as well as in the interior of the tunnel.
Full EU 2004 Tunnel Directive.
DIRECTIVE 2004/54/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL
of 29 April 2004
on minimum safety requirements for tunnels in the trans-European road network.
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/Lex ... 076:EN:PDFBy having a 50mph temporary limit, it allowed time to come up with plan and meant since it was classified as "ongoing work", the EU directive was not breached.
Does this satisfy you now???