The final phase of a smart motorway scheme in West Yorkshire is due to go live next month, Highways England has announced.

Modern technology is being installed on a section of the M1 near Wakefield to monitor traffic levels, provide traffic information, and ease congestion by using variable speed limits on overhead message signs.

Contractors are now underway with work to test the technology before the final stage of the system goes live between junction 41 [Morley] and junction 42 [Lofthouse].

The smart motorway came into operation between junction 39 [Denby Dale] and junction 41 before Christmas, while an extra lane was opened on the northbound carriageway between junctions 41 and 42.

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Overall, 6,172 road studs have been installed with nearly seven miles of reinforced concrete barriers developed in the central reservation.

In addition, the both carriageways have been resurfaced and ten overhead gantries with 38 electric signs have been installed.

Highways England project manager Tsuwun Bevan said: "Smart motorways are already proving successful in other parts of the country and we have now reached a stage where we can open the last section of the M1 between junctions 41 and 42.

"By opening this extra lane it will help to reduce congestion during peak times for drivers by providing four lanes to ease the flow of traffic."

A 50mph speed limit will remain in place for one week while contractors test the technology before the motorway officially opens on Monday, 01 February.

Over the next few months, contractors will return to the site to carry out some additional maintenance work such as bridge waterproofing and resurfacing of the carriageway.

(LM/MH)