Drivers could be allowed to travel at higher speeds through motorway roadworks depending on the day of the week.

Speed limits could be increased from 50mph to 60mph when there is less activity by road workers, Highways England said. This could see limits increased on Sundays.

Highways England, the state company that manages motorways and A roads in England, said it wanted to reduce frustration over roadworks.

Varying speed limits could also be used within one set of roadworks, allowing higher speeds where vehicles are further away from workers.

Speed limits of 50mph are common when narrow lanes are installed during motorway works.

Tests will be carried out to see if varying speed limits could be introduced without increasing risks for motorists or staff.

Highways England figures show there are nearly 300 incidents a week of drivers entering coned-off areas or physically or verbally abusing road workers on motorways and major A roads.

Its chief executive, Jim O’Sullivan, said: “People understand roadworks are necessary but are also frustrated by them. At the same time we have to ensure as they drive through them that they, and our road workers, are safe.

“So we are always thinking of new ways to improve journeys at the same time as keeping everyone as safe as we can. That is why over the next 12 months we will test changes to the design and operation of roadworks.”