POLICE speed checks on motorists driving in the 30mph limit in the Saltash tunnel managed to catch 17 people, who were all travelling over 50mph.
The 17 drivers were stopped within the space of 90 minutes. As a result of the checks, which were part of an extensive crackdown on speeders in the tunnel, a call has been made for the 30mph signs to be larger and more visible. It has also been pointed out that those driving towards Plymouth, through the tunnel, go through a 70mph zone, and then have to drop their speed by 40mph.
Local MP, Colin Breed, said he did not condone speeding in the tunnel, but he felt the speed signs are too small, dirty and need replacing. He explained: 'The speed limit in the Saltash tunnel has changed in recent times and if you are in infrequent user of it then adequate signage is a must.'
Those caught in the recent crackdown have been handed £60 fixed penalty fines, which run in tandem with three points on the licence.
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall police said they have been focusing on speeding on major routes where there are known problems and where accident rates are high. He said: 'The checks officers have made show that many people are driving in excess of 70mph, which is far greater than the original speed limit of 50mph.'
The Highways Agency has said it has no plans to alter the 30mph signs, while the police said the signage in the tunnel is lawful.
The police have, however, told the Agency they were worried about the changing speed limits on the A38 road between Saltash and Bodmin.
The limits alter between 70mph and 30mph along this stretch of road, with about 13 differing speed zones, including a new 50mph limit at Notter Bridge.