THE controversial M4 bus lane will open to motorcyclists and its speed limit will rise from 50mph to 60mph.

Motorcyclists will join buses, coaches and taxis in using the lane. The move is intended to make motorcyclists safer and reduce traffic on the remaining two lanes. Peter Rix, Highways Agency area manager said: 'The agency 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.'

The M4 bus lane began operating in June 1999, starting at Junction 3.