UK’s first car share motorway lane opens – with access for motorcyclists

The UK’s first motorway car share lane was opened by Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly today, with access granted for motorcyclists.

• Ruth Kelly reveals plans for an extra lane instead of road pricing

Car drivers must have two or more occupants to use the 1.7-mile lane on the M606 and M62 near Bradford, but motorcyclists can use it with or without a passenger.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said: “It is open to cars, vans and taxis with two or more occupants. Minibuses, coaches and buses can also use the lane and motorcyclists will also be able to use it whether carrying passengers or not.”

Kelly said similar lanes could be created on up to 500 miles of motorway.

She said it would help motorists “reduce both their journey times and their carbon footprints”.