MOTORING groups are calling on the Government to widen congested motorways, including the M62.

They say an extra lane just 12 feet wide will relieve congestion.

They are also campaigning for greater investment in the motorway network.

The M62, which crosses the Pennines above Huddersfield, is one of the country's busiest motorways.

Tens of thousands of vehicles use it every day - especially the stretches running towards Leeds from Huddersfield.

The AA Motoring Trust, British Chambers of Commerce, Confederation of British Industry, Freight Transport Association, RAC Foundation and Road Haulage Association have joined together in calling for widening the most congested parts of the M1, M4, M25, M6 and M62.

They say motorways carry a fifth of all road traffic and are the UK's safest roads.

But parts of them are severely congested, causing disruption.

A Freight Transport Association spokesman said widening key motorways was the most practical, economic and effective means of relieving congestion.

He said it was also the least disruptive and most economic and environmentally friendly action available.

But a Friends of the Earth spokesman said the overwhelming majority of the public thought there was too much traffic on our roads and wanted Government action to tackle the problem.

"People want better public transport and safer streets for cycling and walking - not more road-building," he added.