Rapid assistance motorcycles carrying emergency fuel to combat breakdowns and ease congestion are being used on a motorway in England while a major repair scheme is underway.

The £100 million scheme includes concrete repairs and waterproofing on the ageing M5 Oldbury Viaduct in the West Midlands. To keep the motorway open, a contraflow system is in place with traffic currently using the northbound carriageway and two lanes operating in each direction, along with a 30mph speed limit.

“Since the contraflow came into effect, we’ve already seen a number of fuel-related breakdowns in the roadworks section. In fact, on the very first day of the contraflow coming into effect, the first breakdown was caused by someone that had run out of fuel,” said Highways England Project Manager Alastair Warnes. “This type of situation can cause delays for fellow motorists. Safety is our top imperative and we’re calling on motorists to do their bit and ensure they have plenty of fuel for the journey before setting off.

“We’re always there to help motorists who need it in an emergency and by offering this type of assistance we’re able to minimise disruption to others driving through the roadworks.”

Motorists are reminded to consider using alternative routes while the work takes place.