In 1958, Lancashire's eight-mile Preston bypass, opened on 5 December and fifty years on the opening of the £174m M6 Carlisle to Guards Mill extension in Cumbria will mark the occasion.

This will close "the Cumberland Gap", enabling motorists to use motorways all the way between southern England and Glasgow. Work on the M6 extension in Cumbria started in 2006 and the 5.8-mile, three-lane stretch of motorway replaces the A74 dual carriageway road. The new road also includes a bridge over the River Esk. 

Transport Minister Lord Adonis, who will open the new road later, said:

"In half a century, motorways have become the backbone of the UK's road network. They are the lifelines of the country, making an invaluable contribution to our business and economic needs and they help keep friends and family connected."  

IHT has created a document to celebrate the 50yrs of the UK Motorway, if you would like a copy please email: rebecca.lee@iht.org 

IHT Branches are organising events to celebrate the 50yrs of the UK Motorway, please check our branch pages for more information.