Crown Court Rules A20 Temporary Speed Restriction Was Unlawful

A Crown Court ruling has found that the temporary 40mph speed restriction introduced on the A20 near Sidcup was unlawful, prompting calls for thousands of affected motorists to have their fines refunded and penalty points removed.

The ruling follows more than two years of controversy surrounding the temporary speed limit on the eastbound A20, which was reduced from 70mph to 40mph in October 2023 while roadworks were carried out.

The restriction led to widespread complaints from motorists, many of whom argued that road signs were confusing, inadequate or inconsistent with satellite navigation systems.

Transport for London (TfL) had previously maintained that it followed the correct procedures when introducing the temporary restriction.

However, according to an announcement from Orpington MP Gareth Bacon, the Crown Court has now found that the Traffic Order and Notice used to implement the restriction were unlawful.

MPs Demand Refunds and Removal of Penalty Points

Gareth Bacon, alongside fellow MPs Laura Trott and Louie French, has been campaigning for motorists affected by the speed restriction.

The MPs have now written to the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, demanding that TfL explain how drivers can have their convictions overturned, penalty points removed and fines repaid.

They are also seeking clarification on what compensation may be available to motorists who suffered financial or professional consequences.

Some drivers reportedly received multiple speeding penalties during the period, with Mr Bacon claiming that others lost their jobs as a result.

The MP described the ruling as a major development following more than two years of campaigning.

Questions Over Signage and Enforcement

The temporary speed restriction was introduced on 2 October 2023 to allow roadworks to take place along the A20.

However, concerns quickly emerged over the clarity of the signage informing drivers of the reduced limit.

TfL previously acknowledged that a third party had installed an incorrect sign, although it continued to defend the overall implementation of the restriction.

The temporary 40mph limit was removed in October 2024 after the works were completed.

The dispute also reached the London Assembly, where questions were raised about the restriction's legality and whether enforcement should continue while legal challenges were ongoing.

What Happens Next for Affected Drivers?

The ruling could have significant implications for motorists who received speeding penalties while the temporary restriction was in force.

However, questions remain about how previously issued fines and convictions will be handled, and whether affected drivers will need to take individual action to challenge their penalties.

The MPs are now calling on TfL and the Mayor of London to provide a clear process for resolving outstanding cases and addressing the consequences for affected motorists.

Further clarification is awaited on the practical implications of the ruling, including the potential repayment of fines and removal of penalty points.

The development marks a significant turning point in a long-running dispute affecting drivers across South East London and North West Kent.

Source: Gareth Bacon MP, statement published 16 October 2026.