The first section of the new ‘managed motorway’ on part of the M62 opened yesterday. The 2.7-mile section, between junction 27 at Gildersome and junction 28 at Tingley, is controlled by signs and in busy periods will see drivers able to use the hard shoulder as an extra lane. Variable mandatory speed limits, indicated by a red ring, will also be displayed to smooth the flow of traffic.

The newly-opened section will remain with a 50mph speed limit as work is continuing elsewhere on the scheme between junctions 25 and 30.