'Expressways' part of major UK roads plan
The introduction of a new standard for A roads known as "expressways", with modernised junctions and refuge areas, is included in plans for major highways for the period 2015 to 2020.
Covering England's motorways and A roads, the plans also include substantial road resurfacing, promises to clear roads more quickly after accidents and fewer roadworks through better planning.
The five-year plan has been produced by Highways England, the new Government-owned company that will take over from the Highways Agency in April. Words: PA
The new body hopes to reduce the impact of incidents by clearing 85% of motorway incidents within an hour by working closely with the emergency services and partners
It also said its safety programme would "build towards the vision of no one harmed on the strategic road network". In addition the new organisation will produce a national cycling strategy by the end of next year.
Highways Agency chief executive Graham Dalton said: "This is another important milestone for England's motorways and major A roads.
"Our strategic business plan makes it clear that in order to deliver investment of this scale we need to work smarter, build strong relationships and provide a really good service for our customers. This will allow us to provide a network that offers better journeys on better roads, enabling growth across the country."
Related stories
Revealed: Britain's most dangerous road
£15bn road-building plan revealed - will you benefit from the transport promises?
