The introduction of smart motorways was intended to ease congestion and improve traffic flow. However, growing safety concerns, technological failures, and public opposition have fuelled demands for the reinstatement of hard shoulders.
Smart motorways were designed to maximise road capacity by converting the hard shoulder into a permanent traffic lane, supported by variable speed limits and electronic signage. However, the removal of a continuous emergency refuge lane has been controversial. While additional laybys, known as emergency refuge areas (ERAs), were introduced, many critics argue they are spaced too far apart to be practical in emergency situations.
Multiple reports suggest that smart motorways may not be as safe as initially promised. A government-commissioned report found that stopped vehicle detection technology, a critical safety measure, failed to meet required standards in one-third of cases. Some systems declined in performance over time, with one instance on the M62 leaving a section of motorway without detection for 28 days.
A separate analysis of National Highways data indicates that in certain sections of the M1, the number of killed and seriously injured (KSI) incidents has risen since the removal of the hard shoulder. This has heightened concerns that smart motorways are placing motorists at greater risk, especially in breakdown situations.
The AA has been one of the most vocal critics of smart motorways, repeatedly calling for hard shoulders to be reinstated. Edmund King, president of the AA, has strongly condemned the current system, stating: “It is time to accept that so-called smart motorways have failed and side with the majority of drivers who want the reinstatement of the hard shoulder.”
He further emphasised the dangers of removing hard shoulders, saying: “If a system is not working, it should not be used. We need to go back to basics and ensure that motorways remain the safest roads in the country. That means restoring hard shoulders and improving emergency access for stranded drivers.”
These statements reflect growing frustration among motorists, with an RAC survey finding that 69% of drivers support reinstating hard shoulders on existing smart motorways.
Government Response and Future Actions
Acknowledging these concerns, the UK government has already cancelled plans for 14 new all-lane-running smart motorways. However, around 250 miles of existing smart motorway remain in operation, covering approximately 13% of England’s motorway network.
While officials claim that enhancements to detection technology and increased ERAs will improve safety, pressure continues to mount for a full return to hard shoulders. Critics argue that without immediate action, lives will remain at risk due to the inherent dangers of the current system.
RAC road safety spokesman Simon Williams said: “While we’re pleased the Government reached the same conclusion that many drivers already have by cancelling future smart motorway schemes which would have seen around dozens more miles of hard shoulder disappearing forever, as things stand, by the end of this year there will still be 250 miles of motorway in England without hard shoulders – that’s around 13% of the complete network.
Smart motorways were introduced with the promise of easing congestion, but growing evidence suggests they have compromised safety. With increasing public opposition, damning statistics, and strong criticism from motoring organisations such as the AA and RAC, the future of these motorways is under intense scrutiny. Calls for the reinstatement of hard shoulders continue to gain traction, reinforcing the need for a motorway system that prioritises safety over capacity.
