Call to make motorways ‘welcoming’

Britain’s motorways “remain a mystery” for many drivers, as 19 million people live in areas without the 70mph roads, a motoring group has warned.

The RAC Foundation called for motorways to be designed for drivers who rarely use them after analysis of Depart- ment for Transport data revealed that 89 local authority areas are not covered by the motorway network.

The motoring research charity’s director, Steve Gooding, said: “While one in five miles driven by car takes place on a motorway, for many motorists these roads remain a mystery.”

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling announced plans last month to allow learner drivers on motorways to better prepare them for independent driving after passing their driving test.