HI-TECH message signs providing better, more accessible information to road users are being piloted on the M4, between junction 12 at Theale and 14 at Hungerford.

In a national first, 36 'next generation' signs, being installed now and scheduled to come on line in 2003, will display pictures known as pictograms to illustrate messages as well as text, to keep drivers informed of incidents and conditions. The signs will be operated by Thames Valley Police.