Speed cut in store on busy m-way in south of France
Motorists in Alpes-Maritimes could face permanent 20kph cut in speeds on A8 amid row between authorities and motorway operator
Motorists across France are getting to grips with the new 80kph speed limit on the country's secondary roads - but anyone driving on the A8 between Antibes and Nice may have to get used to lower speed limits from October.
The limit is set to be cut from 110kph to 90kph on October 1, amid a row between Escota, which operates and maintains the motorway, and the préfecture of Alpes-Maritimes, which sets the speed limits, regional newspaper Nice Matin has reported.
The préfecture wants Escota to install electronic matrix signs along the A8 - similar to those already in place on other routes in France - to give motorists information about upcoming congestion, accidents, and adjusted speed limits at peak times. The operator has refused, unless it is allowed to increase tolls.
As a result, authorities have decided to limit speeds to 90kph between Antibes and Nice Saint Isidore - and have asked the government to step in and make the stretch free of charge to users.
