Highways bosses claim motorists are obeying the new 50mph limit on the Thanet Way – despite widespread reports that it is being flouted.

The temporary limit was introduced last week along the 10-mile stretch of the dual carriageway between Marshside and Dargate.

But drivers claim many vehicles are not sticking to the limit, which was introduced after spells of wet and dry weather left the road surface uneven.

Peter C wrote on the Herne Bay Streetlife page: “I drove both ways along there with cruise control at 50mph and many drivers were speeding past at very high speeds as if the signs did not exist.

“I guess that only average speed cameras will stop that.”

Kent County Council bosses say repair work will begin shortly and is set to continue into the new year.

They add the uneven conditions have been caused by long bouts of wet and dry weather, causing shrinkage and expansion of the clay the road is built on.

Council spokesman Thom Morris said: “We are monitoring compliance of the new speed limit on the Thanet Way and have found generally that traffic has slowed down.

“If necessary we will reinforce the speed limit with additional messages, if required.

“We would like the speed limit to be followed by drivers but if we find that speeds are still excessive, we will consider enforcement action with the police.”

Authority bosses say the majority of the repairs will be carried out overnight in an attempt to minimise the disruption.

A KCC statement said: “The reduced speed limit will allow traffic to continue to move freely and safely on both lanes without greatly affecting journey times.

“We are hoping to be able to fix the problems by early 2017, after which the temporary speed restriction will be lifted.

“We will monitor and review the speed limit to make sure it works successfully until the works to solve this issue are complete.”