THE Highways Agency has revealed its battle plan for tackling congestion on Britain's roads and reduce journey times for fleet drivers.

New measures proposed by the Agency include trials on the M42 involving picture messages which would warn of traffic and congestion.

John Spellar, Transport Minister said: 'Congestion has an impact on all road users and we are committed to tackling it. That is why we have set the Highways Agency challenging targets to deliver safer roads and more reliable journey times.'

During 2003 and 2004, the Agency is aiming to spend £1.7 billion on road improvements, rising to £1.9 billion in 2006. A total of £680 million will go towards road improvement schemes to reduce congestion.

A further £748 million will be spent on highway maintenance and £242 million on improving the roads system, including the development of new technology.