Sir, – Regarding Garry Clarke’s letter (May 2nd) on the legal position of the use of motorways by large public service vehicles (“buses”).
With effect from February 1st, 2009, amending regulations increased the maximum ordinary speed limit for single and double deck coaches on motorways and dual-carriageways to 100km/h – the maximum speed limit remains at 80km/h on other roads. These speed limits apply to the coach/bus vehicles that are not designed to carry any standing passengers.
The maximum speed limit for buses that are constructed to carry standing passengers is 65km/h.
The increase of the coach speed limit to a maximum of l00km/h on a motorway has resulted in the lifting of the motorway driving rule restriction (ban on use of outside lane by buses).
This measure resulted in the more effective and efficient use of motorways by the commuting public. Perhaps Mr Clarke might consider a move to public transport in this context. – Yours, etc,