The UK has one of the least extensive motorway networks for its size compared to some of its European counterparts. 

France, for example, is just over twice the size of Britain but boasts three times the length of motorways.

The UK has 56 motorways over 2,300 miles, while France has a 7,247-mile network, primarily toll roads that connect to neighbouring countries.

The Netherlands network covers a similar amount of ground as the UK, with 2,193 miles of motorway, but the UK is roughly five times larger than the country.

It’s a similar story with Belgium, which is about eight times smaller than the UK but has about half the length of motorways, at 1,095 miles.

Known for its car industry, Germany is the leader with 8,077 miles of motorway.

National Highways is investing over £14.2 billion in enhancements in UK roads as part of its 2020-2025 plan, “providing a benefit of £27 billion to customers, local communities and the wider economy.” 

It says it will invest in “large and often complex” schemes to improve the experience and capacity of the busiest roads and prepare for a digital future with smart motorways. 

Jim O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of Highways England, said: “We will help create jobs and generate economic benefits for the whole country, at the same time as maintaining our roads to the highest standards for today’s drivers.

“In everything we do, we will consider the environment, while also safeguarding and preparing our roads for future.”