Smart lane on the M62 'could be scrapped', reports BBC

Smart motorway upgrade

The 'smart' lane due to be developed on the M62 between Rochdale and Brighouse is at risk of being scrapped, according to a BBC report on Wednesday (22 March).

The BBC reports:

Highways England, which is responsible for major roads, has identified the 16 schemes that could be cancelled, delayed or redesigned, the NAO said.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-39342978

However, earlier this month, following concerns voiced in a letter to the Transport Secretary Chris Grayling by Council Leader Richard Farnell, Highways England said the smart motorway scheme for the M62 will go ahead.

A spokesperson for Highways England said on 2 March: “We are delivering the Government’s £15 billion investment in England’s motorways and major A roads as described in the Government’s Road Investment strategy – this is the biggest investment in strategic roads in a generation.

“There is no suggestion that the M62 J20 to J25 smart motorway scheme between Rochdale and Brighouse is at risk. The scheme, to tackle congestion and improve journey times, is currently in the early stages of development, and subject to statutory processes, work is planned to start in 2019/20.”

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/108514/m62-smart-motorway-%E2%80%98not-at-risk%E2%80%99-says-highways-england