The Highways Agency has awarded a contract to construct two new climbing lanes on the M27 between junction 11 and junction 12 in the South East of England.

Construction of the £18 million project is due to start in January 2008.

Two climbing lanes will be constructed, both approximately 2km in length, eastbound from junction 11 at Fareham and westbound from junction 12 at Portsmouth.

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A fourth lane will be created in each direction by using the existing hard shoulder and adding a new hard shoulder.

All the work will be within the existing Highways Agency land boundary.

Roads Minister Tom Harris, said: "The M27 is a major route, linking Southampton and Portsmouth. This area has seen considerable growth in recent years, which has led to increased traffic flows. The provision of two new climbing lanes on the M27 between junctions 11 and 12 will improve safety, make journey times more reliable and bring welcome relief from congestion and delays."

(JM)