A controversial 50mph speed limit on the M20 has been branded “suicidal” as drivers are slamming on their brakes to avoid fines.

The new restriction is being enforced in both directions by average speed cameras on a stretch between junctions 9 for Ashford and 11 for Hythe.

The limit came into force last month and will stay in place until January 2020 as building work continues for the long-awaited junction 10a.

International trucker Bernard Copeland - who lives in Hamstreet - says the measures are the most dangerous he has seen with motorists slowing rapidly to avoid a speeding fine.

The 70-year-old said: “There is going to be a death on that piece of road - motorists are having to slam on their brakes to slow down in time.

“Drivers are travelling at 70mph, then suddenly they are confronted with temporary traffic signs saying 50mph with speed cameras directly behind them.

“In busy traffic, drivers are left struggling to get into the inside lane as cars are pulling out in front of others - it’s horrific.

“That stretch of road is suicidal.

“I’ve travelled all around the world and this is one of the most dangerous stretches of motorway I have driven on.”

The grandfather is calling on Highways England to gradually reduce the speed limit to 60mph before motorists reach the 50mph zone.

Highways England spokesman Valerie Amar-Matthews says the authority is keeping a close eye on the 50mph limit.

She said: “Building this new junction on the M20 is the biggest boost for Ashford since the arrival of high speed rail 20 years ago.

“It will improve journeys and help the area to flourish.

“We are carrying out the junction construction work under a lane closure and temporary reduced speed limit for safety reasons to protect our workers and road users.

“It is very common to have 50mph speed limits for roadworks on motorways and we have carefully designed the lane closure and signage in accordance with all relevant design and safety standards.

“There are signs starting three miles ahead of the lane closure.

“We will keep the safety performance of the roadworks under continual review and we encourage everyone to pay attention to the signs and respect the temporary speed limit through the roadworks.”

Truckers call for re-think at nighttime

Lorry driver Mason Stephens, of Bentley Road in Willesborough, uses the route up to six times a week and echoed Mr Copeland’s thoughts.

He said: “It does make everyone put their brakes on suddenly; it’s not ideal.

“Also I don’t see much point imposing the speed limit at night - it is needless because there is hardly any traffic.”

Construction of the £104 million junction 10a began in January after more than a decade of talks.

It is being built just 700 metres east of the existing junction 10 on the former Wyevale site.

As well as the 50mph M20 restriction, the rarely obeyed 40mph limit on Bad Munstereifel Road (A2070) will remain in place until the new junction opens.

Junction 10a is expected to be completed in May 2020.