New M62 managed motorway stretch goes live

The 4.3 mile section of the M62 from junctions 26-27, is now fully operational meaning that during busy times, operators in the regional control centre can set overhead message signs telling drivers they can use the hard shoulder as an extra lane and at what speed.

Lanes which are closed will be marked with a red X.

Drivers can only use the hard shoulder as a traffic lane when told to by the overhead signs and a speed limit being displayed over the hard shoulder. If it is not open to traffic – shown by a red X or a blank signal over the hard shoulder – it is illegal to use, unless in an emergency.

The third section, between Chain Bar and Brighouse, will feature permanent four-lane running with no hard shoulder in both directions and is expected to go live in August.

Work on the remaining sections, between junctions 28 to 30, is due to be completed in full later this year.

Highways Agency project manager David Pilsworth said:

“This is the busiest section of motorway in the scheme, and we are delighted that drivers will soon feel the benefits of more capacity and less congestion at peak times.

“However, we recognise that driving on a managed motorway may be new to many people, so we would encourage them to follow the signs and only use the hard shoulder when it is indicated as an extra lane.”

For further information on the scheme visit www.highways.gov.uk/roads/road-projects/m62-junctions-25-to-30-managed-motorway/ or call the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.