The Shortest Motorways in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to motorways in the United Kingdom, not all are created equal. Some of them are so short that they could be mistaken for simple junctions. Here, we explore the shortest motorways in the UK and their fascinating histories.
The A308M: The Shortest Motorway in the UK
The A308M is the shortest motorway in the UK by a considerable margin. Measuring just 0.6 miles (1 km), it is located between Junctions 8 and 9 of the M4 in Berkshire. This motorway serves as a vital link between two major routes, but its engineering is far from ordinary, as we shall see.
A Brief History of the A308M
The construction of the A308M was part of a larger plan to enhance the transportation network between the M4 and other local roads. Its primary purpose is to facilitate traffic flow and support the development of the surrounding areas. However, the project has a rich history that includes proposals and plans that ultimately did not come to fruition.
Other Shortest Motorways in the UK
While the A308M takes the title of the shortest motorway, there are other contenders. Here is a list of some of the shorter motorways in the UK, each with its unique story:
The M41: A Legacy of Unfulfilled Dreams
The M41 was once considered the shortest motorway in the UK. It was intended as part of the West Cross Route, a major transportation project intended to span the length of western London. However, the project was eventually canceled. What remains is a short stretch of road that still retains its motorway status, albeit no longer.
Length: Less than half a mile (Location: London, West London
The Walton Summit Motorway: An Unusual Connection
The Walton Summit motorway is another contender for the title of the shortest motorway. Just 600 meters long, it connects the local road network with the M61/M65 junction. Despite its motorway status, it is not considered part of either motorway network and does not have its own number.
Length: 600 meters (0.6 km)
Location: Between M61 and M65 junctions in the UK
The A635M and the M275: Controversial Claims
Sources such as Sabre and Roaders Digest mention the A635M in Manchester and the M275 in Portsmouth as potential contenders for the shortest motorway title. Each of these motorways has its unique characteristics and stories behind their creation.
A635M:
Length: 0.3 miles (0.48 km)
Location: Manchester, UK
M275:
Length: 10,560 feet (3.23 km)
Location: Portsmouth, UK
The M96: A Mini Motorway for Training
Another short motorway in the UK is the M96, which is located at the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh. Designed to be a mini motorway, its purpose is to train blue light emergency workers in handling major traffic incidents. This unique use of a short motorway highlights the versatility of such infrastructure.
Length: 496 meters (0.5 km)
Location: Near Moreton-in-Marsh, UK
The M898: A Shortest Public Access Motorway
The M898 in Renfrewshire is the shortest public access motorway in the UK, measuring less than a mile (1.6 km). This motorway provides a vital connection for local traffic, though its small size is quite a unique feature.
Length: Less than a mile (1.6 km)
Location: Renfrewshire, UK
The Causes of Short Motorways in the UK
Why do these motorways exist? There are several reasons. Some were part of larger projects that were never completed, while others were designed for specific purposes within a small area. In the case of the A308M, it was meant to connect the M4 and nearby local roads, creating a more efficient transportation network. The Walton Summit motorway, on the other hand, serves as a crucial bridge between the local road network and two major motorways.
Conclusion
The shortest motorways in the UK offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and engineering of transportation infrastructure. From the A308M in Berkshire to the Walton Summit motorway in the UK, these motorways play a significant role despite their small size. Whether you're a transportation enthusiast or simply curious about the unique features of the UK's infrastructure, these short motorways are worth exploring further.