It’s been almost a year since motorists have been able to drive between junctions three and four of the M27 at 70mph.

Transport minister Lord Andrew Adonis officially opened the refurbished motorway just hours after the 50mph speed signs were finally taken down.

The £54m scheme to widen 2.5 miles of the motorway at junction three and 1.2 miles between junctions 11 and 12 eventually finished £4m under budget and ahead of schedule.

About 42 million vehicles have passed through junctions three and four while 438,000 man hours have been devoted to roadworks.

Lord Adonis said: “Providing the extra lane and easier access between the motorway junctions will be a big benefit to motorists and significantly reduce congestion and delays.”