Fuel Prices to be displayed on the M5

A section on the M5 between Bristol and Exeter will trial electronic message signs that will display the cost of fuel along the motorway.

The scheme is being trialled by Highways England and is designed to provide drivers with more information to help plan their journey and to provide a more competitive fuel market, leading to cheaper service station fuel prices.

Five motorway service areas are taking part in the trial, which if successful, could see the programme rolled out nationally.

The electronic signs will show the fuel prices at Gordano, Sedgemoor, Bridgwater, Taunton Deane and Exeter motorway service areas.

Roads Minister Andrew Jones said: “The government is on the side of the honest motorist who have raised concerns for too long about petrol prices at motorway service stations.

“This trial will allow drivers to be much better informed about the cost of fuel and make it easier to plan their breaks around the cheapest deals.”

The trial will run until the end of 2017 and will be monitored Highways England will observe the effectiveness of the signs in terms of its use to road users and the influence it has on fuel prices.

A potential unwelcome consequence of the signs could be the safety implications of more motorists running out of fuel as they attempt to hold out for a cheaper option. This is something that will also be monitored by Highways England.

Chief Highways Engineer at Highways England, Mike Wilson said: “Providing fuel price information is an important part of a bigger picture – we want road users to be more informed and in better control of their journeys. This means they’ll be better prepared, more inclined to plan breaks and have a positive driving experience.

“It’s still very important for motorists to properly plan their journeys and ensure they have sufficient fuel. Running out of fuel on motorways can be hazardous to yourself and other drivers.”

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