PROSECUTIONS against drivers caught exceeding the variable speed limits on the M4 around Newport will come into force next week

Speed enforcement action will be in place on the 13km stretch of motorway between Junction 24 (Coldra) and Junction 28 (Tredegar Park).

The system will go live on Monday September 26, and after a 14-day, period during which advisory notices will be sent out, those drivers breaking the limit will be sent notices of intended prosecution.

Responsibility for enforcement of the variable speed limit has now been passed to GoSafe, the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, and the cameras are being prepared for live operation.

The Welsh Government introduced the Variable Speed Limit (VSL) system in 2011 in a bid to reduce congestion while improving road safety and journey time reliability.

According to GoSafe, when vehicles travel at consistent and similar speeds, journey times become more predictable.

Economy and Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates AM said: “Since its launch the scheme has helped improve traffic flow and reduce the number of collisions along this stretch, with the majority of drivers adhering to the limits in place.

“However, a minority of drivers continue to flout the displayed limits and act as if the restrictions do not apply to them.”

From Monday, drivers joining the motorway within the scheme will see temporary road signs on all entry slip roads advising them the cameras are live.

GoSafe will also be informing drivers that the system is live using the electronic message signs on the motorway verges

The organisation's partnership manager, Chris Hume affirmed that the majority of drivers will not be affected, and that they are targeting the 'relatively small percentage' who disregard the limits.

A media campaign from GoSAfe will aim to reach out to as many users of the motorway as possible.

Mr Hume added: "Ultimately the speed limit signage is there for everyone to see, and there is no excuse, but our aim is to ensure that everyone understands the system is live, and to minimise the number of drivers who end up being prosecuted.

“We ask that motorists respect the variable speed limits at this location with a view to ensuring that congestion is reduced and safety and journey times are improved."