M4 bus lane will open to bikes

The controversial bus lane on the M4 will open to motorcycles from the end of July, the Highways Agency has announced. And if the experiment is successful it could mean a change in the law opening all bus lanes to bikes.

The Highways Agency’s Peter Rix said: ” Allowing motorcyclists to use the lane will help make their journeys safer by keeping them clear of other vehicles.

” We will be monitoring this change carefully, and the results will contribute to decisions on whether there is a wider case for motorcyclists to be allowed to use bus lanes.

In addition the agency has announced that the 50mph speed limit is to be raised to 60mph.

Rix added: ” The lower speed limit was introduced as a safety measure while we assessed its performance, but resulted in longer off-peak journey times. By raising the speed limit from 50mph to 60mph those off-peak journey times should be cut. ”

The increased speed limit will apply to all lanes of the eastbound carriageway from junction 4 to the elevated section of the M4 near Chiswick. The speed limit on the elevated section into London will remain at 40mph.

Both measures will take effect from July 23.

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