Government announce plans for more motorway technology

THE GOVERNMENT has announced plans for 24 road and public transport schemes, including managed motorway and hard shoulder running projects.

Variable speed limits and the use of the hard shoulder lane are already in place on certain motorways to manage traffic flow; the government has now announced an extension to the initiative, which will see hi-tech management of motorways around the country.

Under plans announced this week by transport secretary Philip Hammond, the department is to 'modify' the M62 (junctions 18-20 and 25-30); M60 around Manchester (junctions 8–12); M1 (junctions 32–35a and 39-42); M6 (junctions 5-8) and M25 (junctions 5-6/7 and 23-27). Access to Sheffield will also be enhanced on the M1 in Derbyshire between junctions 28 and 31.

"This government sees transport as a key driver of growth nationally and in the regions. So I am delighted to be able to give the green light to 24 new transport projects and a fund worth over £600m for many more schemes to bid for," said Mr Hammond.

Another 14 schemes "as funding becomes available", the Deparment for Transport added.