High Court Bans Illegal M25 Protests – Jail & Heavy Fines Loom
The High Court has slammed the brakes on illegal protests targeting England’s busiest motorway, the M25. National Highways has secured a fresh court injunction to stop environmental activists from causing chaos on the vital London ring road.
New Laws Tackle Dangerous M25 Demonstrators
The new High Court order means anyone who blocks the M25, fixes themselves to structures, or helps protesters do so risks contempt of court. Offenders face serious penalties, including imprisonment, unlimited fines, and asset seizures.
“Protesting by blocking busy highways or climbing overhead structures is exceedingly dangerous and disruptive,” said Transport Secretary Mark Harper. “That’s why I directed National Highways to get this additional injunction, which the courts approved. It will make it easier to act against this reckless minority.”
Protecting Millions of Motorists from Road Chaos
Duncan Smith, National Highways executive director, warned: “Millions rely on these roads daily and expect them to work smoothly. While we already have an injunction covering hundreds of miles, this new order zeroes in on the M25 to tackle those choosing to break the law.”
Smith added: “Protesting on these busy routes isn’t just unlawful—it’s incredibly risky for both protesters and other drivers. We’re committed to cracking down on unlawful actions and making sure offenders face the full force of the law.”
Background: Crackdown on Insulate Britain and Other Protestors
This new injunction builds on orders obtained earlier this year targeting groups like Insulate Britain. It covers the M25, its feeder roads, and key routes in Kent around the Port of Dover until May 2023.
Thanks to the court’s ruling, tough new measures are now in place to keep England’s busiest motorway moving and keep dangerous protests off the roads for good.
